Hellripper
Hellripper is a one-man black and speed metal project from Aberdeen, Scotland, led by James McBain. Formed in 2014, the music blends fast riffs with occult and Satanic themes. Influences include Venom, Darkthrone, Megadeth, Metallica, Sabbat, Motörhead, and Anti-Cimex, and the lyrics often touch on witchcraft and historical tales like the Anneliese Michel possession or the Affair of the Poisons.
After starting out, McBain released the EP The Manifestation of Evil. In 2015 came a 16-minute split with Batsheva. The 2017 full-length Coagulating Darkness was recorded at home and even featured McBain’s parents on guest vocals; he aimed to push a stronger speed/thrash vibe. The album drew praise, with Metal Hammer calling Hellripper “Scotland’s king of the arcane mosh.”
In 2018 he worked with Barbatos, Nightrider, and Dulvel, and appeared on the Worldwide Organization of Metalheads Against Nazis II compilation. The 2019 EP Black Arts & Alchemy, mastered with help from Joel Grind, was noted by Decibel as among Hellripper’s best songs yet.
The Affair of the Poisons, Hellripper’s second full album, released in 2020 on Peaceville Records, was inspired by the famous 17th‑century poisoning scandal. McBain said the goal was eight fast, catchy songs with memorable riffs and guitar solos. It received strong reviews from Kerrang!, The Quietus, and Louder Sound, and Indie88 listed it among the year’s best metal albums.
Warlocks Grim & Withered Hags followed in 2023 on Peaceville. The album explores dark Scottish folklore, including The Nuckelavee, and it reached No. 11 on the UK Official Rock & Metal Albums Chart.
In January 2026, Hellripper released the single Hunderprest from the forthcoming fourth album Coronach, due for release on March 27.
Live shows began in 2016, with European tours and festival appearances at Metaldays and Roadburn. On stage, Hellripper often performs with additional musicians.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 20:43 (CET).