Brisbane’s metal scene has just been graced by the formation of a powerhouse new band, AHLES, featuring some of the city’s most accomplished musicians. The band’s core lineup brings together Ian Ahles (guitar and vocals), known for his work with Born From The Ashes, Metallurgy, and Dragonsmead, alongside Alix Bandiera (drums), a familiar face from Born From The Ashes and Puncture Wound. They are joined by William Towne (guitar and vocals) and Monash Lal (bass, with occasional flute), completing a quartet that promises to push the boundaries of heavy music.
AHLES officially solidified its lineup in early 2024, quickly diving into rehearsals for their upcoming album Between Dreams and the Waking World. The album, recorded between September and October 2024, is set for release in 2025. Early teasers suggest that the record will be a genre-defying journey, blending intense metal with moments of serene classical guitar and lute, as well as hints of folk music — even incorporating twin flutes in select tracks.
The band has already given fans a taste of what’s to come with the release of their first single, “Will Nothing Grow?” This track, which sets the tone for the album, tells the story of a land that refuses to bow to the will of human invaders. The song moves seamlessly through a dynamic landscape of musical styles: beginning with a tranquil intro driven by classical guitar and fretless bass, it erupts into a powerful metal anthem marked by double kick drums, clean and death vocals, and an escalating intensity. The climax is a blistering display of harmonized sweep arpeggios and rapid guitar scales that showcase AHLES’ technical prowess and diverse influences.
“Will Nothing Grow?” is more than just an introduction to the band — it’s a bold statement of AHLES’ arrival on the metal scene, offering a tantalizing glimpse of the breadth and complexity to be found in Between Dreams and the Waking World. Fans can expect a deeply immersive experience that challenges expectations and explores new musical territories.
With Will Nothing Grow? already making waves, all eyes will be on AHLES as they continue to refine their sound and prepare for their full album release in 2025.
Will Nothing Grow? will be available on November 22 via the regular streaming services https://gyro.to/
