In 2016 and 2025, Washington alt-rock innovators The Melvins toured as co-headliners with UK grindcore veterans Napalm Death under the banner Savage Imperial Death March. The tours showcased contrasting heavy styles. The Melvins, pioneers of the grunge and sludge metal movements, bring intricate riffing at various tempos and odd time signatures, while Napalm Death, pioneers of the grindcore scene, favor an abrasive, ultra-fast mixture of punk and metal with harsh vocals. Now the bands join forces for their first collaborative album, Savage Imperial Death March, and the result is wild, messy fun.
The album features The Melvins’ Buzz Osborne on vocals, guitar, and bass, and Dale Crover on drums. From Napalm Death are singer…