Emerging Artist Reviews

EP Review: Master Splinter "Black Hole"

by The Metalverse

Updated March 02, 2026

Master Splinter's New EP "Black Hole" Review on The Metalverse.net

Portland, Oregon act Master Splinter (named after the mutant rat kung-fu master from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) is back with their newest EP "Black Hole".

The 3-track release begins with "No Die", a song we're familiar with as we reviewed it back in April of last year. The song is introduced as distorted hard rock guitars, slamming drums, and eccentric spoken/softly sung vocals create a powerful sound. Master Splinter quickly showcases a sound that strikes a balance between classic rock, heavy metal, and a more experimental sound. The song builds in intensity as brutal guitar chugs and echoing screams create a sound that is unexpectedly heavy from the starting point of the song.

"Raven's Rise" starts with dark ambient guitar before launching into speeding drums and belted vocals that have an operatic quality to them. Theatrical lyrics remind me of power metal as grandiosities are described while slamming guitar creates a heavy backbone for the track. The song's mix sounds good, but still feels a little unpolished. I think the sense of rawness matches the eccentricity of Master Splinter; it feels like they are experimenting and releasing music that is unapologetic and true to themselves, which I like. A heavily distorted growl launches into a breakdown as bright synths further the epic vibe of the track while piercing guitar leads add more melody to the sound.

The final song, "Unbound" starts with a thumping bass line that reminds of progressive rock as drums and guitar are slowly introduced. Drawn-out vocals further a dramatic sound as reverbed instrumentals create a deep atmosphere as vocals fade away. "Unbound" feels much more atmospheric than the previous tracks, taking a slower sound that focuses on building a larger soundscape. Things speed up soon enough as distorted guitar riffs and shredding leads are catapulted into your ears, meanwhile distant screams further metal influences. Heavy-hitting syncopated chugging creates a memorable exit to the track.

Overall, "Black Hole" is a strong release from the band and showcases a sound that blends influences from across rock, metal, and experimental genres. Master Splinter creates a sound that feels unique, a little raw, and the band isn't afraid to get weird at times, which makes their songs memorable and stand out from the norm. You can stream "Black Hole" available on all platforms now!