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In this episode, we take a focused look at Ireland’s pathway to Wacken Open Air — one of the most recognised festivals in the global metal scene. Joining the show: Donnchadh O’Leary – organiser of Wacken Metal Battle Ireland, overseeing the annual competition that sends one Irish band to perform at Wacken. Aidan “Willow” Williams of Aesect – winners of last year’s Irish final, who went on to perform at the festival. We discuss how the competition works behind the scenes, what judges look for, and how bands are selected to represent Ireland. Aidan shares his experience of playing Wacken, from preparation to performance, and reflects on what the opportunity meant for the band afterwards. The conversation also explores the wider Irish metal scene, the role of competitions like Metal Battle, and whether events like Wacken are stepping stones or standalone milestones for emerging bands. We also give a shout out to this year’s six finalists: Dead Memories, Nihilanth, Acid Age, Mourning of the Heretics, Numbskull Narative, and New Enemy — and what they will bring to the stage this Saturday at Fibber Magee's, Dublin. Link: https://www.facebook.com/metalbattleireland 🎧 A solid listen for fans of the Irish scene and bands considering entering future competitions. wackenopenair #metal #metalcommunity #irishmetal #heavymetal #metalpodcast #metalfestival

Letty Sharp talks to Alan, Francis and Victor of Numbskull Narrative. The band are a Galway-based thrashcore metal punk trio formed in 2022 by Alan Casey (Bass/Lead Vocals), Francis Glynn (Guitar/Backing vocals) and Victor Vieira (Drums) making serious noise on the Irish scene. Fresh off the release of their new EP 'The Gutters', the band has been praised for their “blistering punk anthems” and raw, honest approach—described as “punk therapy” that tackles resilience and mental health head-on. Staying true to their DIY ethos, Numbskull Narrative records and produces all their own music while also creating their own artwork—remaining fully independent at every stage. In this episode, the lads discuss forming the band, recording and producing everything independently, and what it means to reach the final of Wacken Metal Battle Ireland—one step away from one of the biggest metal stages in the world. Band Links: https://numbskullnarrative.bandcamp.com https://www.instagram.com/numbskullnarrative Wacken Metal Battle: https://www.metal-battle.com NumbskullNarrative #TheMetalCell #IrishPunk #DIYpunk #PunkRock #IndependentMusic #GalwayMusic

Nihilanth sit down for an exclusive track-by-track breakdown of their new EP 'Detritus Of Ruin', diving deep into the stories, themes and creative process behind each song. From the raw intensity of “Ruin” to the darker, more personal themes explored in “Don’t Pray For Me,” Aidan (Vocals) & Pete (Riffs) unpack the evolution of the band following lineup changes and how this release became the most focused version of Nihilanth to date. They also talk about pushing themselves in the studio with JSR Audio, collaborating with others, Bloodstock Open Air, and the videos that went into bringing the band’s darker ideas to life visually. Belfast has always had a story to tell — this is one of the heavier ones! Band Link: https://nihilanthriff.bandcamp.com/music Gig Link: Following The Signs / Nihilanth / Too Far Fetched & Terror Syndrome Kino Events HouseKino, Cork Friday, Apr 3, 2026 from 7 pm to 11:30 pm https://www.eventbrite.com/e/following-the-signs-nihilanth-too-far-fetched-terror-syndrome-tickets-1983724475306 Nihilanth #Metalcore #deathcore #irishmetal #ukmetal #newmetal2026 #heavymusic #MetalInterview #BandInterview #NewEP #MetalScene #LiveMusicIreland #metalbreakdown

In this episode of The Metal Cell Podcast, members of Following The Signs — Alan Jevens, Noel Crowley, Vincent Renoux and Chris Hanlon — join us in Metal Cell Studios to discuss their upcoming EP 'EVOLVE'. The Cork-based band dive into the writing and recording process behind the new release, the themes running through songs like “Call To Rise”, “Break The Frame”, and “Stuck In Place”, and how their sound has developed from early EPs through their album Conflictions to the next chapter of the band. Alan, Noel, Vinnie and Chris also talk about songwriting dynamics within the band, recording at JSR Studios, and the momentum building from recent international performances in Poland as they prepare for the release of EVOLVE and their upcoming live shows. Filmed on location at Metal Cell Studios, this conversation offers an honest look at a band continuing to refine their identity while pushing forward within Ireland’s modern heavy scene If you’re into modern metal, metalcore, nu-metal influences, and emerging heavy bands, this episode gives a deep look into one of Ireland’s most exciting rising heavy acts. Links: https://www.facebook.com/FollowingTheSignsCork/ https://followingthesigns.bandcamp.com/ Kino gig: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/following-the-signs-nihilanth-too-far-fetched-terror-syndrome-tickets-1983724475306?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl followingthesigns #irishmetal #metalcore #metalcommunity #metalcore #numetalcore modernmetal

The full lineup of Molarbear join the show for a loud, loose, and brutally honest deep dive into their upcoming EP Cognitive Dissident — out March 7th. Recorded at Manor Park Studio with Neal Calderwood, Cognitive Dissident sees the band sharpening their identity — bigger riffs, darker atmosphere, and passages that feel like they’re about to collapse under their own weight. And yes… we go track-by-track through the entire EP. We cover: • Writing Under Pressure • Studio Stories • The EP Title Meaning • Tone & Gear Talk • Riffs vs Dynamics • What Comes Next? Stream Cognitive Dissident from March 7th. Support independent heavy music! Like. Subscribe. Share with someone who needs heavier riffs in their life. Band Links: https://molarbear.bandcamp.com https://www.facebook.com/allhailmolarbear Check out Cursed Monk Records here: https://www.cursedmonk.com sludgemetal #noiserock #undergroundmetal #MetalCommunity RiffLords

Irish doom heavyweights Brigantia are back on the show! Myself & Howard had a great catch-up with Dave Gleeson (Guitar/Vocals) and Neill Nevin (Bass) of Co. Tipperary’s traditional doom torchbearers Brigantia, as we dive deep into their upcoming EP — recorded in Limerick with Ben Wanders at Wanderland Studios — and set for release sometime in 2026. Brigantia have been flying the doom flag since 2007 (with roots stretching back to the ‘90s), and this new chapter feels heavier, darker and more focused than ever. 🔥 EXCLUSIVE: The lads reveal and premiere a brand-new track killer track on the show — “There’s Been a Murder in Roscrea” — and The Metal Cell had the privilege & trust of the lads to create the video for the song! We also talk about: • The evolution of Brigantia since their 2020 Midnight EP. • Recording the new material in Limerick and upcoming artwork. • The story behind that killer new track title. • Returning to Dublin Doom 2026 and sharing the stage with Marche Funèbre, Death the Leveller, Old Season and headliners Argus! • What the future holds for one of Ireland’s longest-running doom outfits. 🔥If you’re into traditional doom, Irish metal, or discovering underground heavy music before it explodes — this one’s for you. Brigantia links: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100049265563205 https://brigantia1.bandcamp.com/music Dublin Doom Day link: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584585386368 👉 Like, Subscribe & Share to support independent Irish metal. brigantia #irishdoommetal #doommetal2026 #irishmetal #cursedmetal #dublindoom2026 doommetalinterview #metalhead #heavymusic podcast #undergroundmetal #metalband

We sit with DOMHAIN — Andy, Anaïs, and Nathan — to drift beneath the surface of their debut album In Perfect Stillness. We explore: • The making of In Perfect Stillness and how it evolved from their earlier work • Recording at Foel Studio in Wales with the legendary Chris Fielding • Their Northern Irish roots, landscape, and the influence of Irish myth, nature, and the ocean • How they balance melancholy, introspection, and atmosphere in their music • Their striking vocal dynamic — blending raw black metal vocals with tender clean vocals • Guest contributions from Bryn Mills (composer on Footsteps/An Talamh Lom), Raul Andueza (cello), John Wilson (piano), Kacper Lewandowski (guitar), and Sarah Wieghell (vocals) • The creative process behind tracks like Footsteps II, Talamh Lom, and the album’s title track • Their split EP Of Pine and Oak with Ephemeral and how it shaped their new material • And what to expect from their album launch show at Voodoo Belfast (March 7th) with Adfeilion If you’re a fan of atmospheric metal, post-folk, black metal, or music rooted in myth, nature, and deep emotion — this episode is for you. 🔗 Watch “My Tomb Beneath The Tide” here: (https://youtu.be/rqILqN9QAaQ?si=jse9di4LQrHFKIEZ) 🔗 Preorder In Perfect Stillness on Bandcamp here: (https://domhain-band.bandcamp.com/album/in-perfect-stillness) & (https://thesehandsmelt.shop) LIKE • COMMENT • SUBSCRIBE • FOLLOW for more deep conversations with underground artists. Domhain #InPerfectStillness #IrishMetal #BlackMetal #PostFolk #AtmosphericMetal #MusicPodcast #FoelStudio #ChrisFielding #MyTombBeneathTheTide #thesehandsmelt

In this exclusive podcast episode, we sit down with FOR RUIN founder John Murphy in the studio, joined by Pete Lawlor (bass) via Zoom, for a full, in-depth track-by-track breakdown of the band’s new album: “Painted In The Colours Of War”. Out January 29th, 2026 via Gate Of Doom Records Rather than a surface-level promo interview, this episode focuses on the long story behind this record — the 13-year gap since the last full-length, the years of silence, the pandemic-era releases, and why this album exists now. Across the episode, we explore: • Why FOR RUIN returned with a full album after more than a decade • How the concept and title Painted In The Colours Of War took shape • John Murphy’s songwriting process and how it has changed since the early days • Recording and mixing the album at The Barn, North Cork • Reuniting much of the Last Light era line-up • The challenges of recording and collaborating at a distance • How age, perspective, and time influenced the tone of the record •The artwork, atmosphere, and emotional intent behind each song • This is a true track-by-track conversation, covering all ten songs on the album Whether you’re a longtime fan or hearing FOR RUIN for the first time, this episode offers a rare, honest, fan-focused conversation about making extreme metal slowly, deliberately, and on your own terms. We’re 13 subscribers away from 1,000, which is mad. If this kind of long-form, fan-driven metal interview is your thing, subscribing really helps this channel grow. Thanks for being part of it. Band Links: https://forruin.bandcamp.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ForRuin/

In this episode, we sit down with Andrew “Jones” Cassidy (Vocals) and Craig (Bass) from Cursed Sun, one of the longest-running metal bands to emerge from Belfast, Northern Ireland. Formed in 2007, Cursed Sun have spent nearly two decades carving out a sound that blends progressive, thrash, speed, and power metal, earning a reputation as a powerful and uncompromising live band. We talk about the band’s early days and how they’ve survived lineup changes and shifts in the local metal scene. The conversation focuses on their latest EP, Rituals of the Shattered Mind — a release six years in the making, with momentum disrupted by COVID. Jones and Craig break down the themes behind the EP, the creative frustration of sitting on material for years, and why releasing these five songs now was essential, especially with new material already written and ready to go. We also dive into songwriting, track by track insights and what’s next for Cursed Sun — before closing out with some lighter questions. Huge thanks to Jones and Craig from Cursed Sun for the chat. Check out Rituals of the Shattered Mind and let us know your favourite track in the comments. Band links: https://www.facebook.com/cursedsunmetal https://cursedsun.bandcamp.com 🎧 Listen, like, and subscribe for more metal interviews and deep dives. CursedSun #MetalPodcast #NorthernIrelandMetal #RitualsOfTheShatteredMind

2025 was a MASSIVE year for Irish Metal 🤘 In this special Best of Irish Metal 2025 episode, The Metal Cell Forums — Danielle, Joe & Letty — break down the artists, albums, gigs and scene legends that defined the year. Let us know in the comments, who gets YOUR vote! irishmetalart #Metal2025 #TheMetalCell #MetalCommunity Categories: BEST SINGLE: BEST EP: BEST ALBUM: BEST SOLO ARTIST EP/LP: BEST NEW ACT: BEST IRISH METAL BAND: BEST ARTWORK LP/EP: BEST LIVE PERFORMANCE: BEST VENUE & PROMOTER: BEST MERCH T-SHIRT/HOODIE: BEST VIDEO: BEST PHOTOGRAPHER: BEST COMEBACK BAND/ALBUM/PERFORMANCE: BEST SOCIAL MEDIA: BEST INTERNATIONAL ALBUM: MVP OF THE IRISH METAL SCENE:

On this episode of The Metal Cell Podcast, we sit down for an in-depth, one-on-one conversation with Barry Murray, known for his devastating contributions to Cork heaviness through bands like Five Will Die, Partholón, and now his solo drone/doom project Skellig. Across the hour, Barry discusses the evolution from full-band chaos to the stark isolationism of solo bass-only sludge and drone, and why stripping everything back to one bass, seventeen pedals and two amps unlocked a new creative truth. We dive into the origins of Skellig, his minimalist artwork, and the personal philosophy behind making music with no vocals, no drums, no guitars — just tone, distortion, atmosphere, and intent. Barry also talks us through the creation of his new songs and why Rodger and the Cursed Monk ethos are the perfect fit for Skellig’s austere, ritualistic sound in 2026. We get to hear an exclusive and early insight into an exclusive forthcoming track — “A Future Ordained by Spilling Entrails”. We also revisit his previous releases, Of This Carved Land (2022) and Resonance of Our Dolmen (2024), discussing the commentary tied to each work, the minimalist photography behind the artwork, and how solitude, secularism, and distortion shape everything he creates. If you’re into drone, doom, bass worship, experimental minimalism, or just the brutal honesty behind DIY creation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Subscribe, like, and leave a comment — and support Skellig and Cursed Monk Records. Skellig Link: https://skellignoise.bandcamp.com/ Skellig #DroneDoom #IrishMetal #CursedMonkRecords #BassDrone #SludgeDrone MetalPodcast #TheMetalCell #UndergroundMetal #DoomMetal #DroneMetal #IrishUnderground

The Metal Cell Podcast welcomes back the sonic elders of YURT — Andrew Bushe, Steven Anderson, and Boz Mugabe — for an exclusive deep dive into their upcoming album VI – Rippling Mirrors of the Other (2025). Recorded across Hellfire Studio and Deepinthewoods in Wicklow, YURT’s sixth full-length release is a sprawling, psychedelic, progressive noise odyssey blending prog rock, doom, jazz, kraut, punk, electronics, space-rock, and pure experimental weirdness. In this track-by-track conversation, we explore: The creation of The Cormorant Tree, Seventh Is The Skut, Pagpag Variations, From the Maggots Perspective, Shop of Most Auspicious Frog, and Sun Roasted Rodent How the band approach deconstruction, improvisation, synthesizers, and “ornamental space-rock” The artwork, sonic philosophy, and the mysterious ecology of frogs, maggots, rodents, and other Yurtian fauna Band link: http://yurtattack.com/ If you’re a fan of progressive metal, experimental noise, psychedelic rock, Irish underground music, or just brilliantly weird sonic exploration, this episode is essential listening. Yurt #YurtBand #RipplingMirrorsOfTheOther #IrishMusic #ProgRock #ProgMetal #PsychedelicRock #NoiseRock #ExperimentalMusic #IrishUnderground #SpaceRock #DoomMetal #Krautrock #WeirdMusic #ProgCommunity #NewMusic2025 #AlbumLaunch #StudioLife #BehindTheMusic #MusicReels #PodcastReels #InterviewReels #IrishBands

Prepare to dive into the depths. Belfast sludge-groove trio The Boat Sank unveil their brand-new EP, Concerto of the Deep, in an exclusive feature on The Metal Cell Podcast. The Boat Sank consist of Chris (Drums), Charlie (Guitar/Mixing & Mastering), Leighton (Bass). This special episode includes a track-by-track preview, featuring guest vocals from some of the lads biggest inspirations in the Irish Metal Scene. An ep which is a tribute to creativity, friendship, and the depths we all share. Featuring exclusive interviews with guest vocalists Andy Ennis (Imperial Demonic, Domhain & Overoth), Ian Booth (Haint/Stand-Up Guy) and Ryan Adair (Solothurn) who helped bring the myths of the deep to life and the challenges and inspiration behind each collaboration. Neptune’s Wrath (feat. Andy Ennis) The Atlantean (feat. Ryan Adair) Cry Wolf (feat. Ian Booth) Man, Bear, Pig (feat. Ben Graves – Triggertone) Ruins (feat. Jude Milk – Acid Age) Contagion (feat. The busted ass voices of The Boat Sank) #TheBoatSank #ConcertoOfTheDeep #TheMetalCellPodcast #SludgeGroove #BelfastMetal #MythologyInMetal #HeavyMusic #MetalPodcast #EPLaunch Band links: https://theboatsank.bandcamp.com/ https://www.facebook.com/Theboatsank/

In this episode of The Metal Cell Podcast, we sit down with Deserted, the Cork-based death metal band tearing through the Irish scene. Formed in 2023, the lads have blended old-school brutality with modern aggression to create their signature sound — showcased in their debut EP Madness of War and their crushing new single Mental Breakdown. Recorded in The Metal Cell Studios, this conversation dives into Deserted’s formation, lineup changes, creative process, and the making of their upcoming album “Brothers Betrayal.” Listeners will also get to hear two exclusive new tracks from the band — aired here for the very first time. If you’re into Irish metal, underground death metal, or just love hearing passionate musicians talk about their craft, this one’s unmissable. Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE to support the scene! Band links: https://desertedie.bandcamp.com/ https://www.instagram.com/desertedband/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Deserted-IE-61556145250025/

Cork’s finest are back — and we’ve got the exclusive! Jake (guitar/vocals) and Cian (bass/vocals) of God Alone join The Metal Cell Podcast for an exclusive, in-studio track-by-track breakdown of their incredible new album The Beep Test, released the same day as this episode — October 10th. We dive deep into every track, from the pulse-pounding single Beep Test to the hypnotic groove of Pink Himalayan, exploring the stories, riffs, and energy that define one of Ireland’s most unique and fearless bands. Expect chaos, honesty, and Cork charm — this one’s special. 🎧 The Beep Test is out NOW – stream it here: [https://godalone.bandcamp.com/album/the-beep-test] 📅 Album + Podcast release date: October 10th 🎙️ Recorded exclusively at The Metal Cell Podcast Studio, Cork TheMetalCellPodcast #GodAlone #TheBeepTest #IrishMetal #CorkBands #PostMetal #MathRock #NoiseRock #NewMusic2025 #AlbumBreakdown #ExclusiveInterview #IrishMusicScene #HeavyMusic #MetalPodcast