Ready to dive into the heaviest sounds of the week? Imagine a video game theme so intense, it blurs the line between metal and gaming culture. That’s exactly what Courtney LaPlante of Spiritbox delivers with her latest track, “Ties That Bind”, created for Riot Games’ upcoming 2XKO. But here’s where it gets controversial—is this techno-metal fusion a genius move or a risky departure for the alt-prog metal band? Let’s break it down.
Every Friday, Heavy Song of the Week (https://consequence.net/tag/heavy-song-of-the-week/) brings you the most electrifying tracks in metal, punk, and hard rock. This week, Courtney LaPlante’s collaboration with Riot Games takes center stage. Known for Spiritbox’s (https://consequence.net/artist/spiritbox/) futuristic, lab-grade sound, LaPlante’s vocals on “Ties That Bind” lean into a pop-infused style, seamlessly blending with heavy electronic beats and signature Spiritbox guitar surges. Co-produced by bandmate Josh Gilbert, the track feels like a nu-metal experiment—a glimpse into what Spiritbox might achieve if they fully embraced techno or electro-industrial vibes. But is this a natural evolution or a stretch for the Canadian outfit? We’ll let you decide.
And this is the part most people miss—the track isn’t just for die-hard Spiritbox fans. Its gamer-friendly aesthetic makes it a perfect fit for 2XKO’s 2v2 fighter vibe, proving metal can thrive in unexpected places. Still, it raises the question: Are we witnessing the future of metal-gaming collaborations, or is this a one-off success?
Moving on to our Honorable Mentions, let’s start with Astronoid’s *“Third Shot”. This Massachusetts post-metal band blends their dreamy, spacey sound with driving rhythms and prog guitar flourishes, all anchored by Brett Boland’s Coheed and Cambria-esque vocals. The result? An uplifting anthem born from personal loss, proving music can turn pain into power. Next up, *Bell Witch and Aerial Ruin’s “Waves Became the Sky”. This 12-minute epic from their upcoming Stygian Bough, Vol. II is a glacial doom masterpiece, complete with medieval-style chants and somber melodies. It’s not just a song—it’s a journey. Finally, **Black Label Society’s *“Broken and Blind”* showcases Zakk Wylde’s signature stoner-rock groove. With a new album rumored for 2026, these laid-back singles hint at a return to form for the band.
So, what’s your take? Is Spiritbox’s gaming venture a bold step forward or a risky detour? Let us know in the comments—we’re all ears!
