“Pennsylvanian-based independent label Willowtip Records was established by Jason Tipton in the late ’90s. From humble beginnings the label has stood the test of time, becoming one of the most respected and highly regarded record labels in the extreme metal scene. It takes something special to create a label with a consistently unfuckwithable roster of quality, innovative artists, while retaining long-term integrity and durability. Willowtip is the self-proclaimed forward-thinking label, releasing a slew of modern classics and top-shelf albums that may have a lower profile but are more than worth your while. This feature focuses on a pivotal early period in the label’s history that had a huge impact on my own extreme metal tastes. As such, I am highlighting some outstanding albums released by Willowtip between 2001-2006.” Watchmaker knows what time it is.
Watchmaker
Hell Bent – Apocalyptic Lamentations Review
“Hailing from Rhode Island and boasting a moniker indicative of their mode of destruction, Hell Bent create metal sympathetic for the time poor modern metalhead, unleashing a livewire debut LP which shreds through nine potent songs in a mere 23 minutes. Before you ask, Apocalyptic Lamentations is not a grindcore album but rather a raw, punk-infected slab of death-thrash that aims right for the jugular and does not let up.” Reigning Hell.
Into the Obscure: Rune – The End of Nothing
“We all have our dirty metal secrets that we selfishly keep to ourselves, only sharing with a select few close to us. Or alternatively, we incessantly talk up underground gems and spread the gospel to anyone that will listen, as we cherish our slice of underground cred. Into the Obscure aims to right the wrongs and unearth the artists/albums that for whatever unjust reason didn’t get the exposure or credit they sorely deserved the first time round.” Everything’s Rune(ed).