heavy-metal-darkness: Rotgut |8 Oz Cantrip |Self-Release

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Rotgut |8 Oz Cantrip |Self-Release

Release Date 16.01.2026
Format Digital/Cassette
Genre Black ‘n’ Thrash ‘n’ Roll
Country United States

Assembled against their will by a faceless shadow organization in the Winter of 2024, Rotgut was bound by a great purpose: to form an extreme metal band, inspired by crust punk, rock ’n’ roll, and classic schlock to shred wanton across the greater US and parts beyond. Seattle scumbags Rotgut returned to the scene quickly. Only months after dropping "24 Oz Cantrip", they decided the world needed another dose of their filth. "8 Oz Cantrip" serves as a prequel of sorts, digging up four tracks written before the band fully materialized into their current form. Despite being older material, these songs fit right alongside the chaotic noise they spewed out last year.

The sound here is exactly what you expect from a band listing Ghoul and Midnight as influences. It is fast, dirty, and dripping with belligerence. The guitars buzz like a chainsaw cutting through bone, while the rhythm section hammers away with absolute disregard for safety. Vocals shriek and howl over the mix, creating a wall of noise that feels at home in a basement show with sticky floors.

Clocking in at under fifteen minutes, the EP gets in and gets out. There is no time wasted on atmospheric nonsense. The band goes straight for the jugular with a crusty blend of black metal and thrash. It is simple, aggressive music made for breaking things. The production matches the songwriting, keeping things raw and jagged around the edges.

This release satisfies the itch for speedy, punk-infused metal. It is not trying to be high art. It is just four guys making a racket. If you dig the previous EP, this continuation makes sense. It provides a quick burst of adrenaline without asking for much in return. Rotgut continues to brew their specific brand of toxic noise, and it tastes just fine.

Score: 7.0