EP Review: Struck/Down- To Witches.

Words by Anselm Anderson

Uk "Bruiserweights" Struck/Down released their latest EP 'To Witches' on July 7th. The best way to describe the outfit is a cross between the fury of Lamb of God, the grooves of Black Label Society and the commercial appeal of Shinedown.

 Struck/Down was formed in Canterbury, England, in 2014. The five-piece took several years to perfect their sound before the debut of EP 'Gone' in 2019 to the masses. The colossal vocals of frontman Linden Twyman head the band alongside the vigorous drum skills of Tommy Rogers, bassist Will Mihr, lead guitarist Peter McLarney and rhythm guitarist Ian Spurrett.

'To Witches' is a follow-up to 2021's 'From Demons', which resulted in the band winning that year's Metal 2 The Masses competition, earning a spot at Bloodstock. The hard work has paid off with this five-track EP showcasing a dark and broody edge to their sound.

'The Enforcer' is an aggressive and edgy track to begin the EP. The menacing drum fills accompany fiery guitar riffs that perfectly complement the deep and husky vocals. The next song is 'Nephilim' with machine gun riffs and sonic triplet rhythm drums. The catchy chorus and down-tuned riffs remind me of early 2000s bands like SOiL. 

The band have leaned heavily on influences to write songs that are as commercially appealing as they are dark and eerie. The guitar play remains consistent with each solo and riff sardonic and skilful. 'No Value' is one of two tracks that clock in at over six minutes. The song takes some of the sting off the openers and allows the EP to breathe. It is reminiscent of the long-winded ballads of Black Label Society.

In addition, 'Tyranny Hellride' brings back the smashmouth metal with ferocious beats and snarling vocals snapping over the impressive drumming that resonates throughout the EP. The EP feels like it begins to run out of steam before 'Son of an Unburnt Witch' attempts to put some spark into things. The crunchy riff strikes like a venomous snake. The harrowing vocals accompany long, melodic instrumentals that sound like a cathartic exercise for the band.

Overall, Struck/Down put together a release of riffs and ballsy metal to keep eager fans pleased. It may not be perfect, but shows the band have enough skills and talent to go far in this world of manic metal.

Rating: 3/5

Follow this link here to keep updated with all the latest news, interviews, and reviews from Rambling Man.

Social Media Links

https://www.facebook.com/StruckDownUK

https://www.instagram.com/struckdown_official/

https://www.youtube.com/@StruckDownBandUK

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4k0hYswFpdMPtuSMiiKlPr

You can listen to 'To Witches' via the band's Spotify player below