Hellripper is a Scottish black/speed metal project formed in Aberdeen in 2014 by multi-instrumentalist and vocalist James McBain. Blending the ferocity of black metal with the speed and attitude of classic speed metal and thrash, the project rapidly became one of the most acclaimed modern acts in the extreme metal underground.
Known for high-energy songwriting, razor-sharp riffing, and a raw old-school spirit, Hellripper has earned widespread praise for revitalising blackened speed metal while maintaining a distinctly modern intensity.
Hellripper’s sound combines blistering speed metal riffing, black metal aggression, thrash-inspired energy, and punk-driven momentum. The project frequently explores themes of Satanism, witchcraft, folklore, horror, and chaos.
The project is especially recognised for capturing the spirit of classic extreme metal while delivering highly energetic and technically refined modern songwriting.
Coagulating Darkness (2017) – debut full-length album introducing their savage blackened speed metal attack.
The Affair of the Poisons (2020) – critically acclaimed release expanding their melodic and black metal influences while retaining relentless speed.
Warlocks Grim & Withered Hags (2023) – breakthrough album widely praised for its songwriting, intensity, and Scottish folk-inspired atmosphere.
Coronach (2026) – latest album continuing the project’s furious blend of blackened speed metal, occult atmosphere, and razor-sharp riff-driven aggression.
Hellripper has become one of the leading modern blackened speed metal acts, earning acclaim for reviving the chaotic energy of classic extreme metal with exceptional musicianship and memorable songwriting.
Fans of artists such as Midnight, Toxic Holocaust, and Venom are likely to appreciate the project’s explosive fusion of black metal aggression and speed metal ferocity.
All Hellripper releases we carry are official physical formats only, focusing on vinyl and CD editions sourced from authorised labels and distributors.
Hellripper is part of the modern European Black Metal scene, so if you fancy exploring more like-minded artists, have a look through our BLACK METAL CATEGORY. You might also like to read our blog on the different subgenres of Metal \m/
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