Mad e In Italy by Zora: A Death Metal Punch to the Gut (In a Good Way)
Alright, let’s talk about Mad e In Italy, the 2019 death metal banger from Italian outfit Zora. Released under the mysterious-sounding “Not On Label,” this album is like that one friend who shows up uninvited but ends up being the life of the party. It’s raw, it’s loud, and honestly? It doesn’t care if you’re ready for it or not.
First off, let’s shout out the track “United Forces.” This one hits you like a truck driven by someone who skipped breakfast. The riffs are chunky enough to chew on, and the drums sound like they were recorded in a dungeon—which, let’s be honest, might actually be true. What sticks with me is how the vocals roar over the chaos like an angry lion trying to order espresso in rush hour. You can practically smell the leather jackets and sweat. If this song doesn’t make you wanna headbang so hard you pull a neck muscle, you might need to check your pulse.
Then there’s “Intro + Hard Times.” Oh man, where do I even start? The intro lulls you into a false sense of security, all moody and atmospheric, like you’re walking through a foggy graveyard at midnight. But BAM—just when you think it’s gonna stay chill, the gates of hell open, and the main riff charges in like a bull on steroids. The energy shift is wild; it’s like going from sipping tea to chugging Red Bull while wrestling a bear. By the time the track really kicks in, you’re already hooked. Plus, the title just screams authenticity—who hasn’t had some hard times, right?
Now, here’s the thing about Zora: they don’t reinvent the wheel, but they sure as heck know how to drive it straight into a wall of fire. Their style is classic death metal with a distinctly Italian twist—like pizza, but spicier and heavier. And yeah, maybe the production isn’t super polished, but that’s part of its charm. It feels real, like these guys just wanted to shred without worrying about pleasing anyone else.
So, would I recommend Mad e In Italy? Absolutely. It’s the kind of album that reminds you why death metal exists in the first place—to blow off steam, scare your neighbors, and remind yourself you’re alive. Honestly, listening to this feels like therapy, except cheaper and way more fun.
Final thought: If Zora ever tours, I hope they bring merch that says “Not On Label” in big bold letters. Because nothing screams rockstar status like proudly declaring you didn’t sell out… yet.
