Not every day we get a Kiwi band, and not every day we get one that dares to have lyrics in te reo Māori. As someone who spends life jumping between languages (it comes with my business and colorful family members), Alien Weaponry is a band that walks a thin line between Djent, Heavy Metal, and MeloDeath. Honestly, it’s hard to pin it down, but in Te Rā, it seems clear to me that the band aims to conquer the Metal masses. But does it succeed? Let’s find out!
Don’t let the accessible start fool you—Te Rā has some teeth and anger, and it shows as the album progresses. There are even some subtle Folk touches here and there, though they’re so understated you might not notice them on the first listen. What you will notice, however, is the avalanche of Djent-like riffs. They’re the protagonists of every track—thick, long, and slapping (calm your dirty mind down) constantly. The classic 0-000-00 pattern dominates, but thanks to the inclusion of “Māori” singing, the variety that Djent usually lacks is present here.
I almost feel like Alien Weaponry is what would happen if you took all the Post-Metal out of Hyppotraktor. Despite how much I’m enjoying the straightforwardness of Te Rā‘s formula, it’s the vocals that stand out the most. Hate me if you must, but they almost sound Nu-Metal at times. Yet, there’s a rough poetry in the te reo language that creates a striking contrast with the more melodic English sections. Even if I have no clue what’s being said in those parts, who cares? It sounds hostile, and that’s all we’re here for.
Let’s face it, though: this album is too friendly and edgy for most elitists. That said, I don’t have many complaints—unless, of course, you feel a deep disdain for anything that sounds remotely radio-friendly. Alien Weaponry could easily conquer the hearts of many 12-year-olds, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Someone has to nurture future generations, right? As for a more specific critique, I will say that parts of this album feel familiar, as if I’ve heard them in different places before. But that doesn’t take away from the overall experience.
So yes, Te Rā is heroic to the point of being edgy, but that’s okay when you don’t live off it (looking at you, Behemoth). Sometimes, we just want tight riffing that anyone can sing along to, and I think Alien Weaponry has come up with something close to that. It’s why I might return to this album again, even if it contradicts my usual tastes. Now, where can I learn some te reo?
Label: Napalm Records
Release date: March 28, 2025
Website: https://alienweaponry.com/
Country: New Zealand
Score: 3.5/5.0 blasting cannons
Metal Eclipse Reviews 