The Sound of NZ Metal

“The Sound of NZ Metal” is a heavy-hitting tour through Aotearoa’s diverse and intense metal scene. This playlist stitches together the raw aggression of death metal, the crushing weight of sludge, and flashes of technical and melodic brilliance from across the country. It kicks off with brutal tracks like "8 Foot Sativa, Pt. 2" and Sinate’s "Premonition of the Wicked", blending into groovier cuts like Devilskin’s "Little Pills" and the anthemic energy of Shihad’s "Home Again".

From the guttural ferocity of bands like Organectomy and Ulcerate, to the tribal thrash of Alien Weaponry’s "Kai Tangata", there’s a spread that covers classic influences, modern deathcore, atmospheric metal, and beyond. Acts like Shepherds Reign and Verberis bring cultural and experimental elements, while bands like Dawn Of Azazel, Bulletbelt, and Witchrist tap into darker, more extreme realms. Defining heavy music from all angles, this playlist captures the underground spirit and sonic variety of New Zealand metal.