Words by Anselm Anderson
Ireland's Horror rock act EB and The Deadlights have undergone a transformation since I last reviewed 2021's debut EP Still See Ghosts. Firstly, the band underwent drastic lineup changes for the best with the additions of new songwriter/guitarist Macauley Rogers, bassist Maciek Zaworski, and guitarist Reece Mathers, who have vastly improved the band's sound into a mature and evolved quartet. And secondly, the band have gained success with an ever-evolving fanbase opening for several major acts such as Priest (ex-Ghost) and horror punk legend Doyle from the legendary, Misfits.
The wonderfully named Echoes of A Dreamless Life marks the evolution of a new direction for the band with a more muscular guitar sound, heavier tracks and darker lyrics. This nine-track LP borrows influences from Alice Cooper, Rob Zombie and Marilyn Manson, and delves further into punk, electronica and gothic elements.
An unsettling News Report transitions into the murky rock of "Endless Hope," which is layered with distorted guitars and punishing drumming. The catchy rock gives it a good start. The next song is 'Falling Away, a groove-orientated rock track which features slick guitar play and harrowing vocals. Momentum is increased through tantalising solo and meaty riffs. The band are presented with more opportunities to experiment with writing engaging and personal track due to the addition of Macauley Roger's effect on the band is evident in 'Pain That I Need', an anthemic punk track with ominous vocals and enticing guitar leads.
EB and The Deadlights benefit from the other recruits as the music becomes engaging. The dark electronica on 'Hollow Eyes' is moody and disturbing as lead vocalist Ethan Beattie cries "When I look inside hollow eyes I look with disdain. The subtle basslines of bassist Zaworski and fellow guitarist Mathers add uneasiness to the band's sound that wasn't there before.
These additions are what EB And The Deadlights needed to take the band forward. They completely understand the dynamic and the macabre sound helps to establish the band as a unit. I feel this is evident with Lead vocalist Ethan Beattie, who is able to experiment between harsh and clean vocals like on 'Kill Your Answers'. In addition, the recruits have helped Beattie grow in status as a vocalist.
And finally, 'Fatal Violence' is an aggressive metal track, which allows Beattie to express himself through ferocious growls, interlaid with a sonic assault of distorted and abrasive guitars.
Overall, Echoes of A Dreamless Life is a reawakening of a talented band. The album is a darker, broodier and angrier version of the gothic act from Northern Ireland.
Rating: 4/5
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Social Media Links
https://twitter.com/DeadlightsNI
You can find videos for 'Endless Hope' and 'Heaven Into Hell' via the Eb and The Deadlights YouTube Channel below.
Endless Hope (Official Video)
Heaven Into Hell (Official Video)
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