AXE DRAGGER
"Axe Dragger" (Ripple Music; 2026)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
I'll admit it: Axe Dragger surprised me. Based on the band's name, their color-of-slaughter album artwork and their death metal logo, I figured I was going to be listening to a band along the lines of Cannibal Corpse or Cattle Mutilation. But, as I said, the music surprised me.
Axe Dragger's self-titled debut is actually ten tracks of traditional heavy metal (think Saxon, Hammerfall, Metal Church and the like. There's even hints of Motley Crue here). The songs are heavily guitar-driven (with heavy, galloping riffs and fiery, spiraling leads), the rhythm section is explosive, and the vocal are powerful and gruff but never throat-wrecking growls.
The thing that Axe Dragger does so well is take that traditional heavy metal sound and tweak it with a modern edge that's difficult to put a finger on but undeniably present. As you listen to "Axe Dragger," you'll catch little snippets that may reminded you of this or that classic band, but you'll also realize you're listening to a recording from a new band in 2026. Which tells me that, whether you're a fan of classic traditional metal, modern heavy metal or both, Axe Dragger is a band you're going to want to find out more about.
My favorite tracks were the driving, Judas Priest-like "Give You the Rope," the crushing tumble of boulders that is "Eat Me From the Inside" and the freight train "El Toro."
For more information, check out https://ripplemusic.bandcamp.com/album/axe-dragger.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
| Our writers choose
which products we review on RoughEdge.com, and we may earn an affiliate commission when you buy something through our website. Thanks, by the way! |
Copyright © 2026 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
