Richard HolmesSong
Kinchyle (Goatkraft And Granite)
Artist
Hellripper
Hellripper backstory
Hellripper started life as a studio project by sonic alchemist James McBain, whose explosive blend of black thrash, speed metal and Motörpunk first detonated on 2015’s The Manifestation of Evil EP.
Fast forward ten years and Hellripper are now signed to Century Media, have a slew of acclaimed releases under their belt, and boast a growing legion of fans – aka the Goat Kvlt – who snap up every morsel of merch thrown at them.
They’ve also turned into a must-see live act, with festival crowds sent reeling by Goat Vomit Nightmare, Hellkvlt Warfare Kommando and of course, All Hail The Goat!
In James McBain’s own words
“Lyrically, the track was inspired by my experience growing up in the North East of Scotland in Aberdeen (the Granite City), and reflects on what it’s like to feel trapped in a certain environment.
“I wanted to show a side of Scotland that is not necessarily the magical ‘postcard’ that a lot of people picture when thinking of the country.
“Musically, the track is very ‘Hellripper-sounding’, and is the most ‘rocking’ song that I’ve written in quite a while, though there are a few new elements in there that I had fun experimenting with. The track was influenced by the likes of Tank, Running Wild and Motörhead, as well as bands such as Opeth and Witherscape.
“All in all, a very personal song both in terms of lyrics and musical influences. Hope you enjoy it… All Hail the Goat!”
The verdict on Kinchyle (Goatkraft And Granite)
You certainly imagine Algy Ward and Lemmy partying hard to this catchy rocker. And there’s more than a hint of NWOBHM sass to McBain’s gritty riffery here.
Indeed, in true Hellripper style, McBain has bent decades of metal heritage to his infernal will, crafting a spectral scorcher that’s sure to be a live mainstay.
Could it be the next Aberdeen terrace anthem too?
What’s next for Hellripper?
Damnation awaits for Hellripper, as James and the boys hit the legendary extreme metal fest in Manchester on Sunday November 9. Playing on the festival’s 20th anniversary, the band will be sharing the stage with the likes of Stampin’ Ground, Raging Speedhorn, Spectral Wound and Wiegedood.
They’ll also be appearing at Bloodstock Winter Gathering in Wolverhampton on December 6, and have lined up an extensive European tour for spring 2026, including UK dates in Glasgow (March 27), Nottingham (April 3) and London (April 4). Support comes from death thrashers Sarcator.