Empire State Bastard

Revisiting Empire State Bastard is a statement of intent. Simon Neil and Mike Vennart set out the make the most intense debut record they could - "pure sonic annihilation". Once they'd finished writing, they enlisted legendary Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo to perform on the record, and rounded out their live line-up with bassist Naomi Macleod, culminating in their first ever live shows - including a night at Glasgow's Cathouse - described as "crushingly heavy" (Kerrang!) / "unleashing hell" (Metal Hammer). Since, they've played festivals including Download, Hellfest, Copenhell, Wacken, a US tour with Sleep Token and held the first 'Bastard Fest' in Sheffield.

Rivers of Heresy

Exploring the most extreme end of both Simon Neil and Mike Vennart's own musical influences, ESB's debut album 'Rivers of Heresy' received high praise from the likes of Metal Hammer - "a superbly twisted debut (8/10)", Upset Mag - "a seismic tribute to metal music in all its varying guises (5/5)" and NME "wonderfully weird ultra violence". It was nominated for 'Best UK Breakthrough Album' at this year's Heavy Music Awards, and features album art painted by Radio 1's Daniel P Carter, which was also nominated for 'Best Album Artwork' at the Awards.