Hemdale are an American Death metal / Grindcore band from Cleveland, Ohio, USA, known for their raw, chaotic sound and deep roots in the underground extreme music scene. Blending grindcore intensity with death metal brutality, the band built a cult reputation through uncompromising releases and a fiercely DIY ethos.
Before becoming Hemdale, the entire original lineup performed under the name Choke. In 1993, they released a self-titled demo featuring 10 tracks, complete with professionally printed glossy fold-out covers and tapes with printed shells. Later that same year, the band changed their name to Hemdale, likely to avoid confusion with another Ohio-based death metal band using the same name.
Hemdale formed in 1993 with the original lineup of Matthew J. Rositano on bass and vocals (1993–1997), Craig Rowe on drums (1993–1997), and Mike Lehmann on guitars (1993–1997). The band quickly became known for their abrasive, no-compromise approach to extreme music.
Following the collapse of Visceral Productions, Hemdale signed to Relapse Records, where their long-promoted album Jerry’s Massage Parlor was expected to be released. Despite years of anticipation, the album ultimately never saw an official release, adding to the band’s underground mystique.
After years of inactivity, Matthew J. Rositano returned in 2013, taking on guitars and vocals, continuing the Hemdale legacy with renewed intensity.
Choke Demo (1993, as Choke)
Hemdale Demo (1994)
Rad Jackson (1996, Relapse Records)
Can You Smell the Stench??? (2024)
This page focuses primarily on Hemdale T-shirts and apparel, sourced from Relapse Records and other trusted distributors. Designs reflect the band’s raw and chaotic aesthetic, appealing to fans of underground grindcore and death metal.
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Stock rotates regularly, so standout items are worth grabbing while available. We also occasionally carry Hemdale releases on CD and vinyl, though apparel remains the main focus, with additional official items being added where possible.
Fans of Dahmer, Scum, and Exhumed will find Hemdale firmly rooted in that era of uncompromising, chaotic extreme music.
Hemdale has been a key part of Relapse Records - browse the full roster here.
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