South African metal unit Thorns Of Ivory drops new single “Dogs Of War”

South African groove metal powerhouse Thorns of Ivory have shared their highly anticipated follow-up single, “Dogs of War“. Listen to the track below.

This song focuses on the abject horror experienced by those who are not given a choice and only have orders,” comments the band. “War is not glorious. The cost of life, the mental state of those on the ground, and the permanent damage it leaves is not something to be sought after“.

Known for their high-octane live performances and skull-crushing anthems, Thorns of Ivory is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the global metal scene.

Hailing from Durban, South Africa, the outfit consists of founder and guitarist Mitchel Tees, guitarist Marcel Smuts, vocalist Matthew Howes, and founding member and drummer Nasiphi Zwane. Since their inception in 2015, Thorns of Ivory has navigated lineup changes with ease, emerging stronger each time. Their early sound leaned towards hardcore and metalcore, but a shift in members in 2019 led them to embrace their groove metal roots, resulting in a sound that’s both heavy and infectious.

The group’s debut single, “Curtain Call,” released in July 2022, topped the charts on The Doors Rock Radio for four weeks straight. Thorns of Ivory has shared the stage with South African heavyweights like Vulvodynia and Facing The Gallows and reached the Wacken Metal Battle finals in 2023.

The band’s frontman, Matthew Howes, is a true survivor, having battled and conquered cancer in 2023. Their December 2023 comeback show at the Burn Reunion in Durban was a powerful display of resilience.

Thorns of Ivory are gearing up for their first performance of 2024 at the prestigious Pit At The Polo event, where they will be joined by Chase Drewett of Scathanna Wept and The Kill, who will fill in on bass.

Buy “Dogs Of War” here.

More info: https://www.instagram.com/thornsofivoryofficial/