UPRISING, the solo project of WALDGEFLÜSTER’s Winterherz, has returned with their fourth full-length album, “III”. This release marks a departure from the band’s previous lyrical themes, focusing instead on contemporary social and political issues. Musically, UPRISING continues to deliver their signature brand of Black Metal, with a focus on powerful riffs, melodic leads and a driving tempo. The album’s artwork immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. A knight brandishes a red card, a symbol of defiance against globalist agendas and flat-earthers. This is a clear statement of intent, and the album’s lyrics reflect the same uncompromising attitude. They focus on issues such as climate change, social injustice and the dangers of misinformation with a raw intensity that is both thought-provoking and exhilarating. Musically, “III” is a tour de force. Winterherz’s songwriting skills are on full display, as he crafts a diverse range of tracks that showcase his versatility as a musician. The title track ‘Uprise III’ is a particularly strong example of the album’s musical approach. It combines elements of traditional Black Metal with melodic leads and a driving groove, creating a powerful and memorable anthem. Other standout tracks include ‘Raise A Glass’, a furious number with a catchy chorus, and ‘A Message To The Hypocrites’, a blistering assault of Black Metal that showcases Winterherz’s skill as a guitarist. The album’s production is notably clear and offers a powerful sound. However, the emphasis on perfection and clarity often distracted me from my overall enjoyment, especially within the context of Black Metal and other Metal genres that traditionally embrace rawness and authenticity. Nevertheless, the compositions are strong and should appeal to fans of the genre, demanding multiple listens. To find out more about the band and label, please visit www.facebook.com/uprisingblackmetal or www.facebook.com/aoprecs