Syrax – Another Side of the Battlefield Review: Melodic Death Metal from Russia (2026)

Syrax – Another Side of the Battlefield EP cover, melodic death metal Russia 2026

Artist: Syrax
Origin: St. Petersburg, Russia
Label: Independent
Released: July 31, 2026
Genre: Melodic Death Metal
Rating: 7/10

This EP came completely out of nowhere. I saw the name Syrax on a list of new releases, and thought I had to check them out and it was much better than I expected.

Another Side of the Battlefield starts with a folk metal feeling, at first I was not really sure what this was, but then it picks up and moves more into melodic death metal, mixed with elements of viking and folk metal. This works so much better than I first expected.

The guitars sound really good and are a big part of this EP. There are plenty of great melodies, and the drums also get their moments with a good dose of blastbeats. Everything is technically well played and on point exactly where it needs to be, it feels like the band has been doing this for years.

The vocals are a little special. Sometimes they are a bit unclear, but they are also very good when they hit. There are also some Norwegian parts in the lyrics, which fit the whole viking and Norse atmosphere of the EP.

The production is good. I have definitely heard a clearer sound before, and sometimes I wish some of the guitars came through a little bit better. But it is not bad at all. The sound is powerful and fits this kind of music.

Silent Witness of Death is one of my highlights here. This one reminds me a little of the good old melodeath sound, the vocals works better for me on this track. You also get some slower melodic parts in between the heavier sections, and that works really well.

Syrax are a new band from St. Petersburg, formed in 2024, and probably still unknown to many people. I hope as many people as possible check them out, because there is definitely something here. If they continue like this, the full-length album could be something really fucking good.

Another Side of the Battlefield has six tracks and runs for just over 20 minutes. These 20 minutes are definitely worth your time.

7/10

Rating: 7/10

I'll be spinning more albums — stay tuned!

Hauk

If you enjoyed this, check out:
Eternal Mourn – Winds of Sorrow Review
Dark Side – W Matni Review
Sigyn – From Nation to Chaos Review
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