REVIEW: Age of Apocalypse - In Oblivion

Formed in Hudson Valley, New York in 2018, metallic hardcore band Age of Apocalypse have quickly established themselves as one of the most compelling voices in modern heavy music. Blending the aggression of hardcore with eerie melodies, metallic heft, and a sense of theatrical grandeur, their sound feels both classic and forward-thinking. In a scene often defined by repetition, they stand out as true innovators.

Following up their incredible 2022 debut, Grim Wisdom, the band are back with their second full-length album, In Oblivion - a record that sharpens their distinct identity while expanding their sonic palette in rich, new ways. Produced by Taylor Young (Twitching Tongues, God's Hate), this latest release ultimately benefits from his seasoned ear for blending melody with aggression. His experience with clean vocals in the genre, especially with Twitching Tongues, plays a vital role in shaping the album’s dynamic, moody tone. 

The album also features a handful of standout guest appearances, including Taylor’s brother Colin Young (Twitching Tongues, God's Hate), Shaun Alexander of Demonstration of Power, and Graham Sayle of High Vis - all of whom bring their own weight and character to the record without overshadowing its core.

Dylan Kaplowitz’s vocals have taken a huge step forward since the release of Grim Wisdom back in 2022. His performance is more refined and expressive, yet no less intense. With a voice that’s become instantly recognisable - soaring, dramatic, and near-operatic - Kaplowitz cements himself as one of the most unique vocalists in contemporary hardcore. His delivery is integral to what makes Age of Apocalypse stand apart from their peers.

The band have been steadily building anticipation for In Oblivion with a string of monthly singles, beginning with the hauntingly powerful 'Mortal Coil' back in March. More recently, they dropped the towering 'Gilded Hatred,' an album standout that showcases everything Age of Apocalypse do best. The track features the aforementioned stunning guest appearance from Demonstration of Power’s Shaun Alexander, who lays down some powerful vocals on top of an already brutal track.

Across its ten-track run, In Oblivion shakes up the formula for modern metallic hardcore - ambitious, emotionally charged, and remarkably cohesive. There's something to be said of Dylan Kaplowitz's vocal work on this release. It feels like a major step forward from the band’s earlier EPs and debut LP. Showcasing more range and control than ever before. There's also a clear sense of clarity and focus, not just in his vocal delivery, but in the band’s songwriting overall. Age of Apocalypse have developed a sound that appears far more deliberate, more refined, and more confident than ever before.

In Oblivion is a bold and confident step forward for Age of Apocalypse. These are massive, emotionally charged songs that stretch the boundaries of what metallic hardcore can be, trading relentless aggression for atmosphere, tension, and a sense of genuine grandeur. It’s an album that feels cinematic in scale without sacrificing the raw heart that made the band stand out in the first place.

Rather than simply reworking familiar ideas and trademarks of the genre, Age of Apocalypse continues to carve out a space entirely their own. They have maintained a truly unique sound. The clean vocals - soaring, haunted, and commanding - are a defining feature, and we only hope there’s more of them to come. If this is the direction the band continues to follow, they might just be shaping the future of the genre. Put simply, In Oblivion is essential listening for fans of hardcore and all adjacent genres.

Age of Apocalypse head out on a European tour in support of the release in September this year, starting in the UK. Support will come from Balmora and Cross of Disbelief.

Score: 8/10

In Oblivion will be released on May 23rd 2025 via Closed Casket Activities.

Words: Andrew Nile

Photos: Age of Apocalypse