Verdalack | Force From the Grave | Hells Headbangers

    Verdalack is a speed metal band from Tokyo, Japan. The band was formed in 2022 by guitarist Vortex after the disbandment of his earlier thrash metal project Assault Attack, which also included guitarist Vandal and vocalist Villain. Instead of continuing down the same path, the members decided to shift direction and fully embrace speed metal, drawing influence from mid-’80s heavy and speed metal, U.S. power metal, and elements of Japanese hardcore punk. After releasing a two-song demo in 2022, they quickly built a reputation in the underground scene. With the addition of musicians from Significant Point, Military Shadow, Bafomet, Disgunder, and Another Dimension, the band solidified a strong lineup that reflects the energy and creativity of Japan’s extreme music community.

“Force From The Grave” is Verdalack’s debut full-length album, consisting of eight songs and lasting just over thirty minutes. It is a compact release, packed with fast tempos, raw energy, and driving riffs that embody the essence of speed metal. Songs like “Axehead,” “Heretic Flights,” and “Desecrater” set the pace early on with relentless speed and straightforward aggression. Tracks such as “Blood Eagle” and “Final Assault” add more weight with longer structures, allowing melodic guitar leads and anthemic passages to push the music further. The title track, “Force From The Grave,” stands as one of the album’s most intense moments, combining high-velocity rhythms with guitar harmonies that keep the momentum going. Shorter cuts like “Into The Flames” and “Rites Of Hell” close the album with compact bursts of speed and aggression, ensuring that the intensity remains consistent until the very end.

The overall sound of the album feels driven by twin guitar leads, a strong rhythm section, and vocals that match the intensity of the music. The mix captures both raw heaviness and clarity, allowing the riffs and melodies to be heard clearly without losing the raw underground feeling that defines the band’s approach.

“Force From The Grave” reflects the spirit of underground Japanese metal while staying true to its speed metal roots. Its directness, energy, and memorable guitar work make it a powerful debut that sets Verdalack firmly within the international metal scene. Fans of classic speed metal and the intensity of Japan’s underground are likely to find it a thrilling listen from start to finish.

Score: 7.0

www.hellsheadbangers.com
www.facebook.com/hellsheadbangers
www.hellsheadbangers.bandcamp.com
www.instagram.com/hellsheadbangers
www.twitter.com/hellshead666
www.youtube.com/user/hellsheadbangers666