Te Rā

4.25

PICKMETER

4.63

HMB

4.25

CRITICS

band:

Alien Weaponry

release date: Mar 28, 2025

label: Napalm Records (AUT)

type: Full-length

HMB´S REVIEW

You know that kind of album that hits you like a sonic punch and, on top of that, teaches you something? Well, Te Rā, the new album from New Zealand’s Alien Weaponry, is exactly that — a cultural journey wrapped in solid, heavy riffs. And let me tell you, not every band can make you headbang *and* immerse you in a different culture at the same time!

Ever since they burst onto the scene in 2018, this noisy trio has been making their mark — not just in the metal world, but in the way they express themselves artistically. They’re not afraid to wear their roots with pride. In fact, they scream it with fury and poetry, all in Māori, the language of their ancestors — and that’s exactly what makes them so unique. Their debut Tū was already a strong opening statement. The follow-up Tangaroa showed they weren’t messing around. And now, with Te Rā, they seal the deal: the throne of culturally conscious groove metal is theirs.

Right from the start, you feel the Māori spirit still beating at the core of their sound. It’s as if every word sung in their native language carries ancestral weight. And when that’s combined with thick guitars and thunderous drumming… my friend, the result is pure magic.

One of the standout tracks for me was 'Mau Moko' — a true sonic manifesto that blends modern aggression with traditional pride. It feels like the song was forged in the fire of ancient history, but blasted through amps cranked to the max.

And get this — the guys even dive into the more progressive side of metal. Just when you think it’s about to be another full-on breakdown, they shift gears, give you a breather, set a new atmosphere. It’s like they’re saying, “Hold on, we’re not just about heaviness — we’ve got depth too.”

'Te Riri o Tāwhirimātea' is another well-delivered punch. The interplay between the instrumental and the Māori narration is so tightly woven it feels like a dance between ancient gods and modern pedals. 'Ponaturi', on the other hand, hits like a thunderclap — relentless, unyielding, pure brutality. And the title track 'Tama-nui-te-rā' brings an almost ritualistic vibe, with beats and melodies that transport you to a space where tradition and modernity give each other a high five.

Oh! And how could I ignore 'Taniwha'? That one comes with some heavyweight reinforcement: Randy Blythe (from Lamb of God) lends his vocal fury to take the destruction to another level. If this track were an earthquake, it’d register a solid 10 on the Richter scale.

At the end of the day, Te Rā is more than an album — it’s an experience. Alien Weaponry haven’t just kept their identity strong as steel, they’ve refined it with courage and creativity. It’s metal with purpose, with soul, with roots. And it’s this blend of sonic brutality and cultural beauty that makes them truly special.

Review by Troadie - HMB´s Staff