TETRARCH SET TO DETONATE THE SCENE WITH "THE UGLY SIDE OF ME" — A MERCILESS, FACE-MELTING MASTERPIECE.

Scott O'Shea
Apr 25
4 min read

American heavy metal juggernaut Tetrarch is gearing up to drop their highly anticipated third studio album, The Ugly Side of Me, on May 9, 2025, via Napalm Records.

But here’s the kicker — we’ve been given the incredible honour of getting an early listen to the album... and trust us, you’re not ready for what’s coming.

Close-up of a fly on a dark background with text: "Tetrarch" and "The Ugly Side of Me." Moody, gritty texture with cryptic numbers. — TETRARCH - The Ugly Side Of Me

(Click here to read our review)

With tireless perseverance and distinct talent, the ascent of modern metal/hard rock stars TETRARCH has been palpable since the release of their first album, Freak (2017), followed by their Napalm Records label debut, the highly-acclaimed Unstable (2021). After four years of intensely focused growth and lead guitarist Diamond Rowe’s emergence as iconic brand Jackson Guitars’ first female signature artist, the band will release their trailblazing third album, The Ugly Side Of Me, via Napalm Records in 2025.

The band is poised to top the multi-millions of cross-platform streams and views of their addictive singles and high-energy videos, frequent playlisting via Spotify, Apple and others, top 40 Active Rock radio blitzes, attention from major media like Billboard, Revolver, Alternative Press, Guitar World, Kerrang! and Metal Hammer, and international tours supporting scene stealers like Sevendust, Atreyu and more.

If there is any question as to whether a band can push the confines of nü metal 25 years after its initial peak, TETRARCH are the answer. Combining energetic modern musical aggression and lyrical honesty while organically honoring nü metal's foundations with colossal choruses and unforgettable melodies, they appeal to fans both in and outside of the metal scene, providing newcomers a gateway into heavy music.

Among its perfectly crafted 10 tracks, The Ugly Side Of Me cuts like 90s industrial-injected single “Live Not Fantasize” – which premiered via SiriusXM Liquid Metal upon its release alongside Rowe’s Jackson Guitars signature launch – thrills with intense electronic flourishes, quick riffage and dynamic, spine-tingling guitar solos. Anthemic second single “Never Again (Parasite)” – featuring the standout vocal debut of Rowe – carefully balances thick grooves and massive atmosphere with deep-cutting lyricism and the mulit-faceted vocal breadth of frontman Josh Fore.

Tracks like album opener “Anything Like Myself” showcase the hypnotizing, crushing metallic brilliance of the band while flirting with Fore’s intense screams and Ruben Limas’ punching drums, while the likes of “Best Of Luck” stand tall with the rhythmic basslines of Ryan “Dooms” Lerner and Rowe’s inventive riff artistry. Profound melodic bangers like “Erase” and “Cold” are injected with intricate guitar solos, while “Headspace” and “The Only Thing I’ve Got” thrust the vital, brooding elements of TETRARCH into the forefront. Each track succeeds with lyrical themes of facing our own darkest criticisms – embracing the healing notion that what we feel others may see as our worst traits actually define the greatest aspects of our individuality.

Featuring massive, needle-sharp production co-helmed by renowned producer Dave Otero, Diamond Rowe and Josh Fore, The Ugly Side Of Me boasts unrelenting brutality, undeniable catchiness and songwriting mastery. Heavy metal is practically begging for its next wave of genre frontrunners, and with one listen it’s clear – TETRARCH lead the charge. As Guitar World claimed for all to see, “TETRARCH are on the verge of world domination”.

Four people sit on a sidewalk curb in casual attire, looking serious. Graffiti and red paint mark the background. Overcast mood. — **Photo Credit**: Guillermo Briceno

Novacaine Rating: 10/10

"Since the release of their 2021 album Unstable, I’ve been all-in on Tetrarch. The moment I heard “I’m Not Right,” I immediately grabbed the vinyl—and I’ll be doing the exact same thing when The Ugly Side of Me drops on May 9th, 2025.

Tetrarch has been on an absolute tear—each release hitting harder than the last. After spinning this new album front to back, I can confidently say: there isn’t a single skip. Compared to Unstable, this record shows real evolution. Their sound is tighter, bolder, and unmistakably theirs.

You can still hear hints of their roots—Slipknot might come to mind—but Tetrarch has long stepped out of the shadow of their influences. They’ve carved out a signature sound that’s raw, refined, and ready for the world stage. The Ugly Side of Me isn’t just a step forward—it’s a statement. This is the album that’s going to turn heads and grab the attention of millions.

As much as I’d love to dream about booking them for a future Novacaine Festival, this band is already setting its sights on something far bigger. Tetrarch is made for the main stage—Download Festival headliner status. I can see it now: lights blazing, riffs shaking the ground, and a sea of fans going absolutely wild.

They’re on a rocket ship to the top—and it’s only just taking off."

— Scott O'Shea

"The Ugly Side Of Me is a Merciless, Face-Melting Masterpiece" - Scott O'Shea