Emerging from Preston, England—known as the “wettest city” in the UK— Shrike, a three-piece Heavy Metal band, are ready to disrupt the underground scene with their debut album, The Divine And The Serpentine. Set for release on 21 February 2025, this self-released project is a bold and emotionally charged dive into the heart of modern Metal.
The Divine And The Serpentine is no ordinary debut. This “semi” concept album merges Shrike’s blend of ambient, cinematic, and orchestral textures with raw, thematic storytelling. The album delves into abusive relationships and the intricate emotions tied to addiction, recovery, and personal growth.
Shrike – The Divine And The Serpentine
Tracks like Ebb And Flow (This Will Never End) and Plagues Confide Through Masquerade reveal an unflinching narrative that tackles themes of narcissistic abuse, suicidal ideation, and societal hypocrisy.
“This album was the end product of four years,” Guitarist and vocalist Liam Shaw says of the album’s genesis. “Sleepless nights, anxiety attacks, and a million other roadblocks along the way. It discusses the effects of abusive relationships of all kinds—romantic, familial, and more—while also prompting self-reflection on how we may need to atone for our own behaviours.”
Crafting the Sound of Emotion
The album benefits from the expertise of Lucas Fletcher (Blanket), who contributed vocals and mixing, and Connor Sweeney (formerly of Loathe). The mastering by Grant Berry (Employed To Serve, Deaf Havana) ensures a polished, impactful sound. Recorded and mixed at Shell City Studios, The Divine And The Serpentine captures the intensity and emotional weight that Shrike intended.
Album Highlights Include:
- Serpentine: Inspired by Medusa, this track explores mob mentality and black-and-white thinking.
- Plagues Confide Through Masquerade: A visceral journey through narcissistic abuse.
- The Riverbank: Showcased in the official music video, blending cinematic storytelling with relentless riffs.
- No One Knows: A daring cover of the Queens of the Stone Age classic.
Shrike is a tight trio with a shared commitment to pushing boundaries:
- Liam Shaw – Guitar, Vocals
- Ste Byrne – Drums
- Danny Greenwood – Guitar
With their roots in resilience and innovation, Shrike delivers an album that’s not just music but a cathartic experience. Their ability to weave personal struggles into universal themes makes The Divine And The Serpentine an essential listen for any fan of modern Metal.
Prepare to witness the rise of a band unafraid to turn emotional depths into a symphony of Metal brilliance. Find out more at Bandcamp.
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Shrike Unveil The Divine And The Serpentine: A Daring Debut for Modern Metal first appeared on
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