Country: Australia
Genre: Groove / Thrash Metal
For fans of: Testament, Bloodkill, Evile
Review
In Malice’s Wake return with The Profound Darkness, a record that hits with heavy, dark and apocalyptic groove-thrash. The band has built a sound that combines massive riffs, relentless downpicking, storming drums and a production that gives real depth and weight to every blow.
The guitars of Shaun Farrugia and Leigh Onics move in absolute sync, creating a doom-laden thrash atmosphere that recalls the darkest side of Testament and Evile. The riffs are tight, aggressive and full of technical precision, while the rhythmic base of Luke “Karl” and Mark De Vattimo keeps the album in a permanent state of attack.
Vocally, Shaun spits bile, rage and dark intensity, with a snappy, clipped delivery that fits perfectly with the record’s apocalyptic style. Thematically, the album dives into psychic darkness, demonic forces and inner decay, something reinforced by the aggressive, almost ritual atmosphere of the compositions.
The Profound Darkness consists of nine tracks with no trace of filler. Each song is a small assault: fast, heavy, with an attitude that leaves no room for breath. If we have to single out two, then “The Profound Darkness” and “By Tongues of Demons” show clearly what makes the band so effective in 2026 — dark groove, thrash momentum and riffs that melt you.
In Malice’s Wake deliver a record that flays ears, breaks necks and confirms their dominance in modern groove-thrash.
Line‑up
Shaun Farrugia – Vocals & Guitar Leigh Onics – Guitar Luke “Karl” – Bass Mark De Vattimo – Drums
Tracklist
- The Profound Darkness
- Beyond Death
- By Tongues of Demons
- The Last Song
- Numb to Paradise
- Upon My Flesh
- The Great Purifier
- Away from the Light
- The Darkness Below Us
