Brainwave Unleashes ‘Ill Intent’ Feat. Xile – Album Due Spring 2025

Wellington hardcore mainstays Brainwave are sending you evil vibes only on their new single Ill Intent feat. Luke Manson from Auckland-bred, now UK-based, bruisers Xile, out today on all major platforms.

“Luke is a legend in New Zealand hardcore and we’re stoked to have him feature on the track,” vocalist Rob Thompson said.

Similar to their previous release The Truth, the music video is dark, aggressive, and violent. This being Brainwave’s second official music video, it is clear they are working hard to expand their visual identity alongside their sonic one. Leaning into the tropes of early music television, with 4:3 aspect ratios and grainy analog footage.

Ill Intent is the title track of the band’s debut album, set to be released this Spring. Their recent singles The Truth and Another Foe will also feature on the album.

Pre-order Ill Intent vinyl and merch here.

Joining forces once again with long-time friend and collaborator Lewis Noke-Edwards, the Melbourne-based producer continues to help them hone their sound as they evolve with this release.

“Crafting the sonic and visual identity of the album has been a wild ride. Ill Intent was one of the earlier songs we wrote and naturally became the thematic anchor for everything else,” Thompson said.

“We’ve got more surprises on the album too. We’re excited to finally announce the record and send it out into the world.”

Lyrically, the album explores themes of hopelessness, loss, and the brutality of everyday life, but also conquering the summit and overcoming both your detractors and yourself. Artist Cam Parker captures these themes perfectly in the album art.

“There is nothing more metal than a warrior with a huge bloody axe triumphing over his adversaries,” Thompson said.

Catch Brainwave live at their upcoming shows:

Headlining the Existence Birthday Bash on Saturday, 14th June, at Valhalla with Lucre, Martial Law, Ruminari, and Shuriken ($10 on the door).

Supporting Iron Mind on Friday, 11th July, at Newtown Community Centre with Lucre and Shuriken. Tickets at UTR.