Otherworldly alt. duo ZETRA have emerged from the shadows once more with whisper of their highly anticipated, self-titled debut album, that will be released on 13th September via Nuclear Blast Records. From Bandcamp comes these prophetic words: “The Portal has opened, the Darkness is calling. Absolution can only come through loss. A sacrifice must be made. ZETRA asks the question. Do you believe enough?” The new album has 10 songs.  “Suffer Internally” is first. It has a heavy electronic sound as well as a good deal of melody, sort of a DEPECHE MODE meets NINE INCH NAILS, or a modern recreation of HIM. Whoever handles the vocals isn’t an exceptional singer by any traditional definition, but the dreamy quality of the harmonies works hand in hand with the melancholy and psychedelic music. “Sacrifice” has heavier leanings on the bottom end but the vocals and melodies shine on the upper end. They have an honest sense of developing big hooks amidst the yearning of the song, and the atmosphere is vivid and alive. “Starfall” was I believe the second single released from the album, and it has a crushing down-tuned riff that combines with sparking hooks and melodies. The harsh vocal also give the song a gritty and hardened edge.

“The Mirror” has a more traditional riff ala THE CURE or other 80’s bands that can push melody with mood in equal doses. The chorus is once again where the heart of the sound really comes into play…it is catchy and mournful. “Shatter the Mountain” uses keyboards to create a full and rousing sound that takes me to another dimension that I didn’t think existed. It features a simple keyboard melody over heavy, emotional vocals that climb above the dark and burdensome riffs. “Holy Malice” has a slower pace that drips with heavy burdens…the kind that speak of pain and regret, and the kind that you thought you had left behind a closed door. The chorus once again delivers the heart of their sound.  “Inseparable” is a tender offering that has piano & synths along with another weighted backbone. I suppose it could be considered a ballad of sorts, especially considering the slow pace and emotive vocals. “Gaia” has a sturdy guitar riff and is augmented with keyboards once again. It represents the beauty of the album in many ways…that melancholy sadness that is so catchy. “Moonfall” is different in that it is almost twice as long as some of the other songs on the album, but the band is able to skillfully ride out big waves of hooks throughout. It also has some messages of resolve in the spoken words: “In the woods, as in the sky, wandering everywhere, turning darkness into daylight…”

This album is a captivating fusion of retro 80’s nostalgia and contemporary intensity, where every track feels like a neon-lit ride through a dark cityscape. The music features a retroactive  aesthetic and anthemic choruses that echo the best of a bygone era. Beneath this nostalgic veneer lies a heavy and modern edge—a fierce undercurrent of powerful riffs and aggressive production that makes each song feel fresh electrifying. It successfully captures the spirit of rebellion and adventure that defined the 80s, while pushing the boundaries of modern rock, and is filled with heart, hooks, and undeniable drive.