Let me start by revealing something. I probably have the least metaphorical chest hair of all the AMG staff, meaning I often struggle to appreciate the more masculine subgenres of metal, including “traditional and true” heavy metal. But there are exceptions to every rule, and a big one is Mega Colossus.
These North Carolinians have so far been warmly received in these halls by the venerable Eldritch Elitist, and for good reason. Their euphoric cocktail of incredibly catchy melodies and clever lyrics—often paying tribute to fantasy stories on the fringes of pop culture—is served with an infectious, fun mood. When Showdown appeared in 2024, I felt things couldn’t get much better than that. Now, Mega Colossus have returned to answer their self-imposed test with Watch Out! and continue spreading unlimited joy throughout the metalverse.
Mega Colossus‘s philosophy for making music seems to be “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” That specifically means for them a triumphant return of their hybrid of traditional heavy metal and classic rock, with touches of thrash and power metal. Like Iron Maiden, Judicator or Dream Tröll, Mega Colossus avoid the darker and harsher aspects of metal, choosing instead to build on an unshakeable melodic foundation. In that regard, it seems Mega Colossus operate on a divine level. They have an exceptional ability to discover juicy earworms and put them in more hooks than can be found in an experienced fisherman’s box. As with Riptime and Showdown, calling Watch Out! fun would be a huge understatement.
As always, an unadulterated spirit of camaraderie shines in the way the members of Mega Colossus play together. I’ve already found how catchy Watch Out! is, but the way the melodic elements work together is what makes it special. While dual-guitar harmonies may be standard in this genre, the skill with which Chris Millard and Bill Fischer create them is anything but. The vocal harmonies, though more sparing, are no less sweet, with up to three other band members merging their voices with singer Sean Buchanan’s during the key refrains (“Good Hunting”). Every time they shout during the chorus of “Battlefront,” I can’t help but dream of shouting along with them in a crowd at a show. Aptly, “Tag in Your Friend” is the best example of coordination between the vocals and the guitar melodies. Anthony Micale’s bass lines are no less important to this melody-delivery system than Doza Mendoza’s high-octane drum patterns.
While Mega Colossus largely operate the same way, they refuse to stay stagnant in their songwriting. Others in this genre may struggle to keep songs timely beyond the 5-minute mark, but Mega Colossus skillfully extend song lengths without the listener noticing. Chief among these is “Good Hunting,” which has the highest hooks per minute and an excellent bridge. If that isn’t my Song of the Year in December, something must have gone very right in 2026. Elsewhere, Mega Colossus prove they can still write exciting music with the fast selector down low. The dreamy guitars on “Here Lies You” echo Led Zeppelin, while “Bloodless” goes full bard mode, telling the story of Kvothe (The Kingkiller Chronicle). I’d prefer these two slower tracks weren’t placed one after the other at the end of Watch Out!, which is why “Bloodless” may seem a little too long. Beyond the minor pacing issues, it’s wonderful to hear Mega Colossus continue to branch out compositionally.
Showdown was a difficult album, but Mega Colossus brought another album to the fore with apparent ease. Each member’s individual performances have improved, with faster, more technical fretting and an impressive variety of drum patterns. Buchanan’s vocal range has widened, the rich timbre of his voice drawing me into the stories he weaves and making the poetic lyrics even easier to appreciate. The quality and quantity of hooks radiate excitement in every note. I hope Watch Out! will be the record that sparks the surge in popularity Mega Colossus deserve. These lovable scoundrels once again brought a smile to my face and joy to my heart.
Rating: 4.0/5.0
DR: 7 | Format reviewed: 320 kbps mp3
Label: Cruz del Sur Music
Websites: colossusmetal.bandcamp.com | meltedfaces.com | facebook.com/colossusmetal
Releases worldwide: March 6, 2026
Koutemous (also known as Mrs. Killjoy)
Watch out! Mega Colossus pulled it off once again. And by “it,” I mean they conquered the heart and soul of traditional metal in the most fun way possible. So fun, in fact, that they managed to grab my attention and pull me from the depths of stale pop music into a world of rich lyrics, incredible guitar riffs and excellent vocals. This grounded band of unrepentant nerds hails from North Carolina, with Watch Out! being their fifth full-length album since their 2008 debut. Their music continues to be the bridge between pop culture and metal that the world never asked for but desperately needs, leading me, a diehard pop and K-pop listener, to feel a strong desire to share this review.
This seven-track album continues the trend of combining sharp hooks with fun lyrics that their previous album, Showdown, had, though once again, the band has evolved its sound. Several tracks feature otherworldly interludes and dark lyrics, creating contrast with the energetic compositions we’ve heard from Mega Colossus in the past. That doesn’t mean every track doesn’t make me want to get up and dance, grab a sword, jump into a Chevy Impala and start an adventure (yes, in that order), but the album as a whole deals with heavier themes followed through within the instrumental tracks. Mega Colossus have cited the rock band Uriah Heep as an inspiration for this album, explaining the tendency toward the opposite style this album presents. In fact, thanks to the darker tones that permeate this album, Watch Out! leans more into traditional metal territory compared to the band’s previous classic rock sound, which recalls Kansas.
Most tracks start gradually, with the two guitarists, Chris Millard and Bill Fischer, leading the buildup into the familiar, fast, energetic sections as singer Sean Buchanan begins to sing. More contrast is introduced with one or two mellow interludes, only to return straight to the frenzied chaos that makes your heart pound. One of the tracks that doesn’t follow this pattern is “Battlefront,” the first single released from Watch Out! That’s probably no coincidence, as the song best reflects the warmer sound and hopeful lyrics of encouragement to action found in previous hits. It’s a full dance party throughout the track, with no breaks in tempo and guitar riffs rising and falling like hills on a roller coaster. However, the fact that the song is in a minor key and contains lyrics about fighting to the death gives the track more edge compared to the mellow counterparts like “Wicked Road” (Showdown).
As someone coming from a background that strictly listens to pop music, I especially appreciate Mega Colossus‘s elaborate storytelling ability that brings each song’s lyrics to life. “Here Lies You” offers a respite from the agile tremolo picking and a breather from all that adventure and dancing. The song develops into a wonderful duet between the two guitarists, accompanied by Sean Buchanan’s sturdy vibrato, telling the story of a fallen soldier who haunts the battlefield where he died instead of moving on to an afterlife reminiscent of Valhalla. The tragic, poetic lyrics are what bring this album to life and are what help shape its devastating sound that still appeals to pop culture lovers like me.
While I wasn’t as into this album as Showdown, I hope this album will broaden Mega Colossus‘s listening base by adding sharp rhythmic contrasts and imaginative, melancholic lyrics to their overall sound. Among the incredible vocals that have only improved over time, the easter eggs in their lyrics referencing fantasy worlds created by others, and the guitar duets that bring powerful energy to every track, Watch Out! deserves one or a dozen listens from music listeners of any genre.
Rating: 3.5/5.0
The review was done by Angry metal guy.
https://www.angrymetalguy.com/mega-colossus-watch-out-review/
