New releases last two weeks: Metal

Review: Originally released in 1998, Garage Inc. would follow the split double albums of Load and Re:Load as a form of creative cleanse for thrash metal titans Metallica. Clocking it at over two hours, this epic compilation of covers taken from the Garage Days Sessions, B-sides, as well as new selections, paint a sprawling sonic picture of the vast array of influences each member holds dear. Running the gamut from punk and hardcore (Discharge, Misfits), to early proto-metal (King Diamond, Motorhead), all the way to their classic rock and more outsider inspirations such as Bob Seger, Blue Oyster Cult and Lynyrd Skynyrd (with their rendition of 'Tuesday's Gone' as an exceptional highlight); this bloated, overstuffed collection may appear overwhelming at first glance, but offers a curious through line and insight into the varying machinations that have maintained Metallica's status as the biggest thrash metal act of all time. It all had to start somewhere, and what better place than the garage?

Review: The influence of Type O Negative continues to be felt long after Peter Steele's death signalled the end of the band. The goth metal band have a generous number of high points in their career, and 2003 album Life Is Killing Me is surely one of them. Drawing on his personal struggles at the time, Steele created a powerful statement draped in the grandiose style of rock he had cultivated since the band's debut. As well as the single 'I Don't Wanna Be Me', there was a cover of the song 'Angry Inch' and the opening track 'Thir13teen', a piece of music from classic TV show The Munsters. Two decades on from its original release, this is the first time the album has been released on vinyl, presented as a triple black and green pressing in a trifold sleeve.