Loathe

Loathe is a boundary-pushing metal band from Liverpool, England, that’s been redefining the genre since their formation in 2014. Known for their intense soundscapes and emotional depth, the group consists of Kadeem France (vocals), Erik Bickerstaffe (guitar and co-vocals), Sean Radcliffe (drums), and Feisal El-Khazragi (bass). In their early years, Loathe embraced a mysterious identity—performing in masks and using pseudonyms—which added to their enigmatic presence and set the tone for their debut EP, Prepare Consume Proceed (2015).

Their 2017 debut album, The Cold Sun, introduced a dystopian concept and blended elements of metalcore, industrial, and ambient music, laying the foundation for their unique sound. But it was their 2020 follow-up, I Let It In and It Took Everything, that truly elevated them to critical acclaim. The album mixed brutal heaviness with dreamy shoegaze textures, drawing comparisons to acts like Deftones while still sounding entirely their own. It earned praise from fans and critics alike, with Loudwire naming it one of the best metal albums of the year.

In 2021, Loathe took another creative leap with The Things They Believe, an instrumental, ambient-driven release that showcased their ability to move beyond genre confines. Over the years, they’ve received nominations from major industry awards, including the Metal Hammer Golden Gods and the Heavy Music Awards.