Around this time last year, I spoke with The Lycan about how the band came together. During that conversation they told methat 2026 would be “all gas and no brakes,” and they have more than lived up to that statement. The Lycan recently dropped their new EP, “Nocturnal Dominion” at Empire Underground November 6. After picking up a physical copy at the release show, it became immediately clear that this record is a statement piece from a band intent on making its presence known.
They have been pounding the ground and laying down the seeds all year. From putting out three videos, two of which are for this EP, all of them vividly entertaining and accentuating the songs they portray.
The album artwork perfectly complements the music contained within. A werewolf howls beneath a blood red moon, capturing the dark, aggressive energy that drives the EP from beginning to end. Inside, listeners will find printed lyrics and a band photo, adding a personal touch that media collectors will appreciate. While the CD is currently only available at live shows, the exclusivity makes it an even more worthwhile pickup for fans who want something tangible from one of the areas hardest working bands.
Opening the EP is “Vendetta”, which received a video release over the summer. This opening song is a fist to your face song that points out the inequality between the everyday people and the “ruling class”. Sonically, the song has crushing riffs, punishing breakdowns and an explosive solo that will melt your face off. Rather than simply venting anger, “Vendetta” feels like a rallying cry, urging listeners to stand firm and refuse to surrender their strength or freedom.“Gatekeeper” follows with a slower, heavier approach.
Thick, sludgy guitar work drags the listener through a grinding groovethat will have you instantly slow banging your head. Its groove provides a strong contrast to the urgency of “Vendetta,” showing another side of the band’s songwriting while maintaining the EP’s overall intensity.
Nestled in the center of this EP is The Lycan’s cover of System of A Down’s classic “Toxicity”. It masterfully keeps a familiar feel of the original while transforming it into something distinctly their own. The classic hit you’ve heard thousands of times is suddenly rebuilt in a thicker, darker, eerier body. What was once a frenetic alternative-metal anthem now feels like it has been dragged through the shadows and reborn with sharper teeth. It’s not easy to reinterpret such a beloved track, but The Lycan pulls it off with confidence.
“Snake Oil” the second song from the EP to receive a music video continues the momentum. Combining melody with crushing heaviness, the track explores deception and hypocrisy, examining the people who present one image to the world while living by another behind closed doors. The contrast between its melodic elements and aggressive delivery makes the message hit even harder.
Closing out the EP is the title track “Nocturnal Dominion.” It’s a fitting finale, bringing together the aggression, groove and intensity that define the release. Fast-paced and relentless, the song serves as one last knockout punch before the record comes to an end. By the time the final notes fade, there’s little question that The Lycan has established itself as one of the most exciting heavy acts in the scene.
Nocturnal Dominion is more than just another local metal release. It is the sound of a band that has spent the past year refining its identity, building momentum, and proving that the hype surrounding them is justified. From the crushing opener to the powerful title track, every song serves a purpose and contributes to a cohesive listening experience. While their recordings showcase strong songwriting and musicianship, The Lycan's live show remains the band's greatest weapon. If this EP is any indication of where they're headed, 2027 could be an even bigger year. Do yourself a favor and give Nocturnal Dominion a spin, and if you get the chance, catch The Lycan live.
Listen to Nocturnal Dominion on Spotify
