Each month, I aim to highlight bands, whether their music is new or old, in hopes of bringing them the attention they deserve.
You never know, you might even discover something for yourself!
Big Smoke – Nothing Left To Mourn
Release Date: 1st May 2026
Record Label: Self Released
Big Smoke started May off by bringing out their second EP. This brand new 5 track EP hits differently but also shows their leading on from their first release! This EP gave an uplift from their first release ‘From The Big Smoke’.
With their sound identified as pure London beatdown, it’s hard not to say this is exciting.
Big Smoke had an EP release show at Blondies Bar on the 14th May with our friends at Living Spite supporting. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to get to it (sad face) but I’m sure I’ll catch them live soon, there’s still time!
Derail. – Born Into Waste
Release Date: 1st May 2026
Record Label: Self Released
Derail. released their debut EP back at the start of the month. With influences from the modern nu-metal and hardcore sound their debut 6 track EP which also features from Sam Culvy of INDEATH on their track ‘Switchblade’ hits incredibly hard!
I was lucky enough to catch them recently in Milton Keynes and of course they set the stage alight!
Make sure you check out our quick fire interview with the lads below
Make sure you check these guys out, they have a show at Blondies on July 3rd you can head to…right?!
Rung Out – Demo 26
Release Date: 13th May 2026
Record Label: Self Released
This new Reading outfit came out with a banger of a demo recently. With 3 hard hitting tracks and their first show on 25th July in Southampton supporting Skunk record release show via Betrayed By Life Records.
Hopefully we’ll get some more shows coming our way.
This is definitely for fans of that old school turnstile esc sound and the OG’s from Baltimore Trapped Under Ice.
Artwork for the Demo was also been made by vocalist Brea who you can hit up for any artwork needs you have via her instagram account @eyes.of.abomination
Prozpekt – Dancefloor Fundamentals
Release Date: 8th May 2026
Record Label: Betrayed By Life Records
Prozpekt released their debut album last month! The Teeside beatdown band have worked tremendously hard to get this released and with the help of SOHC label Betrayed By Life Records behind them.
Prozpekt’s sound is something genuine and something that doesn’t take itself too seriously and their always a fun show! We spoke with vocalist Cal late last year about their influences:
‘For current Prozpekt I would say we spoke about everything when we had lineup changes and we all wanted and compromised on having a sound that was more uniform so for our next release I’d say our largest influence is probably Reaper Records type of bands like TUI, Backtrack that sort of era.’
I was able to catch Prozpekt recently in their local scene and what a set they put on. If you ever get the chance to catch them make sure you do!
Prozpekt Bandcamp
Prozpekt Interview
Kartel – Gutter Music Vol. 1
Release Date: 5th March 2012
Record Label: Rucktion Records
My final album for this month comes in the form of Rucktion release RUCK046 from back in 2012. After having the recently updated Rucktion playlist on repeat a few times I’ve dived back into what I would say is my heyday of UKHC.
With those classic chord progressions and unvocalised riffs ringing out, it gives that proper UKHC sound from the 2010’s.
With a new show being put on in Leicester supporting Midlands own Full Contact at Duffy’s Bar next month I can’t wait to see Kartel for the first time in a long time.
A lot of new UKHC listened to this month! and a few that I haven’t included as they’ve been recently released so keep an eye out for the June playlist.
Until next time, I’ll catch you in the pit!
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