Malevolence is a powerhouse of the modern British metal scene, hailing from Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Often described as a “17-year overnight sensation,” they have mastered a unique, high-swagger blend of Groove Metal, Hardcore, and Sludge. They are famous for their “chav-metal” aesthetic—performing in North Face tracksuits and sportswear—which contrasts sharply with their crushing, polished sound.
Band Overview
- Origin: Sheffield, England, UK
- Formed: 2010 (with roots going back to 2006)
- Genre: Groove Metal / Hardcore / Metalcore
- Lyrical Themes: Strength through struggle, unity, mental health, and social reality.
- Label: Nuclear Blast / MLVLTD Music (their own independent label)
History & Evolution
The band’s core was formed when guitarists Josh Baines and Konan Hall were just 12 years old. TheWould you like me to check the specific dates for their 2026 Iberian tour, or should I look for their 2024 single “Trenches” to see how it fits into their new album?y officially became Malevolence in 2010 when vocalist Alex Taylor joined, bringing a more aggressive, hardcore-influenced edge to their early melodic death metal sound.
- The DIY Grind: For over a decade, the band operated with a fierce DIY ethic. When they couldn’t find a label that met their vision, they converted a derelict warehouse in Sheffield into their own HQ and launched MLVLTD Music to handle their own releases and merchandise.
- The Viral Breakthrough: While they had a dedicated cult following for years, they went viral in early 2023 for their chaotic mosh pits. This followed a massive post-pandemic surge where they moved from playing 500-capacity clubs to supporting Architects in arenas and playing to 10,000 people at festivals like Download.
Key Releases
- Reign of Suffering (2013): Their debut, released when they were still teenagers, immediately set them apart with its “whiskey-swigging” Southern swagger (despite being from Northern England).
- The Other Side (EP, 2020): A turning point released during the UK lockdown. The single “Keep Your Distance” (feat. Bryan Garris of Knocked Loose) became an anthem for the era and skyrocketed their streaming numbers.
- Malicious Intent (2022): Their first release under Nuclear Blast, featuring guest spots from Matt Heafy (Trivium). It showcased a “matured” sound that included soul-baring ballads like “Higher Place.”
- Where Only The Truth Is Spoken (2025): Their latest full-length album, released on June 20, 2025, which further solidified their status as a “legacy name” in British metal.
Musical Style: “The Steel City Sound”
Malevolence is often described as “Dimebag Darrell joining Hatebreed to make a sludge album.”
- The Groove: They draw heavily from the “Deep South” sound of Pantera, Crowbar, and Down.
- The Hardcore: Their live energy and breakdown-heavy sections come straight from the Hatebreed and Terror playbook.
- Dual Vocals: The interplay between Alex Taylor’s gruff barks and Konan Hall’s melodic, soulful cleans gives them a dynamic range rare in the genre.
Current Lineup (2026)
- Alex Taylor: Lead Vocals
- Josh Baines: Lead Guitar
- Konan Hall: Rhythm Guitar, Co-lead Vocals
- Wilkie Robinson: Bass
- Charlie Thorpe: Drums
Current News: Malevolence has just announced a run of headline shows in Spain and Portugal for 2026 following the massive success of their latest album.