PITVIRUS – State Of The Nation

“The world is a pit, and we are the virus.” So says PitVirus, Johannessburg, South Africa’s raucous, groove metal band. Within the first 30 seconds of opening track, “Xeno Man,” from its five-track EP State Of The Nation, you’ll be hooked. Hooked by the heavy grooves, man! Hooked by the infectious melodies, catchy choruses and the thunderous rhythm section as well. The basis of the band’s subject matter is South African politics as well as other worldwide issues, without being a “political” band. Yet, PitVirus loves to vent! 

The aforementioned opener “Xeno Man” shows off the band’s infectious skills at social commentary, decorated with jagged Sex Pistols riffs and an aggressive Sepultura vibe. “Firepool” (view the lyric video below) calls out controversial South African President, Jacob Zuma, with vitriolic aggression. Yet the track is contrasted with melodic vocal harmonies and a catchy chorus. “Between These Walls” is also rather addictive come chorus time, while closer “Ugly Show” is a little different musically compared to the other tracks and contains a Marilyn Manson meets Rammstein industrial metal vibe. Throughout the recording, vocalist David Beretta Owens possesses an infectious range, while the exceptional, groove-inspired riffs of guitarist Chris van der Walt, and the solid rhythm section of bassist Marc Junius and drummer Thomas Hughes, also add the right combination to the band’s overall sound. State of the Nation is some impressive work and is worth checking out. This is some fun stuff!