AGATHOCLES / UNHOLY GRAVE split CD

Agathocles / Unholy Grave – …..To Protect / Rotten World But No Bore Shit – split CD

Agathocles and Unholy Grave are two highly significant underground grindcore bands, representing the Belgian and Japanese scenes, respectively. This split release thus marks an intriguing encounter between European mincecore and uncompromising Japanese grindcore.

Agathocles formed in 1985 in Mol, Belgium. The band was founded by Jan Frederickx and Erwin, both of whom were already active in the underground scene—creating fanzines, compiling mixtapes, and participating in the punk and metal communities. Initially a duo, they aimed to create music that was as fast, noisy, and raw as possible. Their influences included bands such as Lärm and Hellhammer.

The band quickly became one of the most prolific acts in the European underground. Agathocles gained renown primarily for their vast output of split releases, EPs, and smaller records. Their approach was defined by a DIY ethos and an aversion to overly polished production. The musicians described their style as “mincecore”—a raw, minimalist, and socially conscious take on classic grindcore.

Over the ensuing decades, the band’s lineup underwent numerous changes. Jan Frederickx remained the only constant member, having been with the group since its inception. Today, Agathocles stands as one of the longest-running bands associated with classic grindcore.

Hailing from Nagoya, Japan, Unholy Grave has been active since 1993. The band has been rooted in extreme grindcore from the start, with lyrics focusing primarily on political and social issues, as well as anti-fascism.

The name Unholy Grave was taken from the song “Beyond the Unholy Grave” by the American band Death. Initially, the band’s music blended grindcore with death metal, but over time, their sound shifted toward even more extreme grindcore and noisecore.

The band is also known for its prolific output, particularly split releases. Over the years, they have collaborated with numerous bands from around the world, establishing themselves as a key link between the Japanese and international grindcore scenes.

Takaho (vocals) and Tee (guitar) are considered the band’s key permanent members, having been with the group since 1993. However, the lineup has seen many musicians come and go, particularly in the roles of bassist and drummer.

Label: Grindfather Productions – GF600
Format: CD
Country: Not specified
Release Year: 2026
Genre: Rock
Styles: Grindcore, Punk

The first part belongs to Agathocles and features eight tracks:

Intro / Bomb The Bastard
Judged Too Soon
Wagewar
To Serve… To Protect
Hand In Hand
Scared
Homes Not Domes
Full Of Hatred

The second part belongs to Unholy Grave and features ten tracks:

Introduction
In My Eyes
The Nightmare Continues
Eibon
Auttamaton Juoppo
Abuse
Respect The Different
Doomed World
Black Horse Of Famine
Warsystem
A Lesson We Must Never Forget
Outro…