Everyone’s favorite horror punk goons are back with a new 4 song ep, showing the band still in top form.
At this point, it’s hard to believe that Grave Robber has been around since 2005 with their trademark skeleton stage costumes and horror movie themed music that is interwoven with their faith. I’m sure many wrote them off long ago as a gimmick but when you combine sincere beliefs, hard work, persistence, faith, and talent in the way they have over the years, their staying power should be no surprise. Catchy choruses, bouncy rhythms, and strong vocals have been their hallmark from the beginning and show no sign of slowing down.
While the earlier material from the band was definitely more Misfits-esque, over the years, the sound has become more metal at times, and now settled into a metallic melodic punk feel. The first track, “28 Days Later” ventures into the four minute long category, going far from typical punk territory, but has all the elements one would want and expect at this point, strong vocals, catchy chorus, a dark tone, some cool guitar transitions and a solid rhythm section to anchor things. Production is solid as one would expect, without giving too clean of a sound.
“Salem’s Lot” wastes no time launching to a fast, chugging rhythm and brings in some of the Cryptkeeper like vocals, to trade off with Wretched’s normal smooth clean vocals. Catchy, solid guitar solo that fits within the context of the song and even a fast start/stop at one point, make this another solid song.
As is the case with nearly all their songs, likely all their songs, the horror aspect is tied to something more real with “The Babadook” representing the voice of despair that whispers you’re beyond hope, the shadow that feeds on grief.” The added atmospheric elements on the ep and highlighted in “The Fog” work well and are not overshadowing the music or distracting.
Grave Robber, now more than 20 years after starting, continues to deliver great music. Some of the urgency and intensity from the days of Be Afraid may have been smoothed out a bit but the songwriting, arrangements, and ability to relate horror movies and themes to faith and life remain as strong as ever. I just wish there were more songs on the ep…
Rating: 8/10
Written by John Jackson
Tracks
- 28 Days Later
- Salem’s Lot
- The Babadook
- The Fog
Release Date: March 13, 2026
Record Label: Independent
Band Members
Wretched – vocals
Viral – guitars
Carcass – bass
Plague – drums
Weblinks
Bandcamp: https://graverobberpunk.bandcamp.com/album/black-roses
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/graverobberpunk
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialgraverobber