Hellfire riffs unleashed
During May of 2026, the legendary British pioneers Venom unleashed their latest release, a high-octane black ’n’ roll record titled Into Oblivion. The album, which clocks in at a lean and mean runtime, captures the chaotic spirit of first-wave black metal by channeling a gritty punk-fueled approach. The sound features an uncompromising heaviness, combining Cronos’s iconic gravel-throated snarls with the band’s trademark pummeling rhythm. Lyrically, Into Oblivion revels in classic themes of satanic rebellion, leather-clad debauchery and absolute hellfire, pushing further into darkness and relentless cacophonous destruction.
Looking more closely, the band emerged from Newcastle in 1979, helping pioneer extreme metal. Cronos, the enduring co-founder and bassist, remains the rough-edged captain and primary visionary of the group, continuing to guide the band’s direction with consistent intensity and formidable presence. The veteran power trio is rounded out by the thunderous percussion of Dante and the razor-sharp guitar work of Rage. Together, this seasoned lineup delivers the raw, raucous energy found throughout Into Oblivion.
To begin with, the track “Kicked Outta Hell” bursts open with catchy overdriven guitar riffs that immediately set a rebellious tone. Fast and unapologetic, the song rides on a relentless galloping rhythm section. Cronos delivers a snarling vocal performance throughout, reinforcing the album’s lawless hellbound atmosphere.
In contrast, the song “Lay Down Your Soul” leans heavily into Venom’s anthemic side while retaining their signature grit. The track is driven by a pounding mid-tempo groove and sharp speedy riffing, allowing the chorus to hit with a commanding chant-like force. It balances accessibility with aggression, making it one of the album’s most infectious moments.
Additionally, “As Above So Below” showcases a darker, more ominous edge built on brooding riffs and a heavier deliberate pace. The song gradually intensifies, layering distortion and rhythmic weight. Emerging after the halfway point, a jagged guitar solo injects more raw hostility into the occult soundscape.
Overall, Into Oblivion is a focused and direct record that highlights Venom’s core musical traits. The combination of aggressive riffing, steady pacing and recognizable vocal delivery creates a sound that is both familiar and effective across the album’s runtime. In addition, each track contributes to a unified tone, making Into Oblivion a solid addition to the band’s catalog.
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