Metal may often be about death and destruction, but not of the rain forest. At least, that’s the philosophy behind metal band and 501(c)3 non-profit Savage Lands, both of which were founded by Megadeth drummer Dick Verbeuren. The non-profit was established in 2022 to raise money for reforestation efforts, and the band has now released a handful of singles, using the proceeds to help save the rainforest. The band recently released their latest single “No Remedy,” via Season of Mist Records, which features guest vocals from Maria Franz of Heilung.
The new single packs a punch, but is undeniably the most melodic of the handful of singles that the project has put out so far. Explains guitarist Sylvain Demarcastle about the single:
“That’s one of the beautiful things about Savage Lands. As a band, we’re not limited to just one genre. We can adapt to boost the strengths of whoever is joining us.”
The band’s vocalist Poun, who is also known for his work in Black Bomb A, simmered down his trademark screaming style to better support Franz’s vocals in the new track. Said Franz about doing the song:
“Supporting what Savage Lands is doing on the ground in Costa Rica was an easy decision. But when Sylvain sent me ‘No Remedy’, there was a sense of melancholy to the song that really resonated with me”.
The video sees the band and Franz performing the new song in an abandoned building as the band members start fighting with each other, then disappearing as the building starts to crumble. It’s an absolutely haunting video
The band played a set at Hellfest on Friday night and, by all accounts, killed it. It featured guest appearances from Andreas Kisser (Sepultra), Shane Embury (Napalm Death), Vincent Dennis (Body Count), and more.
Listening to the track alone helps raise money for Savage Lands, but you can also make donations here.