I’ve always been one that’s up for a good split. Whether it be two bands that have a similar sound that want to have a split together because why not or two bands that share a label with B-tracks from previous albums, a good split is something that I always accept with open arms. When I came to learn about the upcoming split between Integrity and Krieg, I figured that the latter of the two previous examples is the reason for this split being a thing, but that still doesn’t detract from the fact that this piece is something to behold.

The worlds of hardcore and black metal have never really been the sort of sounds that I ever felt would make a good mixture, but I was happily proven wrong with the excellence that is the latest Gaerea record, and these two acts show yet again that black metal and hardcore can be great together in the proper doses. Sure, the two styles are split between each band, but that doesn’t take away from the pure delicious nature that Integrity and Krieg bring to the table that, while obviously different overall, sound quite similar when played back-to-back, and even compliment each other. Integrity brings their signature, gritty hardcore that has ever excellent flavor the style has to offer with a blistering pace and undeniable attitude that graces all four of their tracks on display here. In the case of Krieg, we’re gifted seething black metal that doesn’t really do anything different to the overall formula in the long run, but Krieg manages to create a sound that feels like a continuation of what Integrity created while still proudly standing on its own, and does a great job of it at that. Each band excels in their own areas while also showing off the strengths of the other whilst moving as a cohesive unit. Not many splits can manage something like that, but Integrity and Krieg make it work as if this split was carefully planned for years.

As someone who has never really gotten into either one of these bands in the grand scheme of it all, I just can’t sit here and not say how delicious of a split this is. Integrity and Krieg make this out to be everything a split should be down to the core whether it be on purpose or by pure chance. It’s a terrific listen with plenty of personalities, attitude, and flavors for everyone to find a tasty morsel.

“Split” releases on August 3rd via Relapse Records!

LISTEN to advanced tracks from “Split” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Integrity on Facebook here.

FOLLOW Integrity on Facebook here.

LIKE Krieg on Facebook here.