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EP Review: Paradis- Self Titled

 

Words by Anselm Anderson


Metalcore act Paradis released their hotly-anticipated self-titled debut EP last week, The quintet combines the raw ferocity of the genre's vocals with the dark atmospheric music of black metal, which is a unique approach to the revived genre, once maligned by metalheads all over.

Formed in London, England, the multicultural group consists of vocalist Johnny Weaver, guitarists Pedro Silva and Federico Di Biase, bassist Mark Kuchmenko and drummer Flynn Everard. The band commented on how this was a team effort, reflected over five intense, headbanging tracks.

Photo Credit: Michael Williams
One notable aspect of this EP is the diversity of the tracks. Paradis delivers powerful and ominous metal with impactful orchestration and bone-shaking breakdowns. The band's creative ideas allow the music to take on a life of its own, showcasing a contrast between aggressive, angst-filled vocals paired with heavy riffs, and melodic vocals set against gothic undertones.

'Boneyard' is an atmospheric dark metal track. The opening intro is a foreboding mix of synths, melancholic guitar lines, hollow screams, and ear-splitting riffage and drumming. The breakneck speed of "Reflections' is a hardcore metal track steeped with big thunderous riffs and contagious choruses reminiscent of  NWOAHM bands like Chimaira and Hatebreed. The band's rich, ambidextrous dual guitars are addictive and mesmerizing, making it impossible not to bang your heads to. I enjoyed how they incorporated various textures into each song, creating a personal and emotional experience while delivering a powerful message to the listener.


The macabre "Immortal' adds a deathly touch to the music. The combination of haunting choral voices over the intense, raw vocals and groove-orientated breakdowns take this mini-album in a new direction. "Storm" is a song filled with energetic guitar riffs and emotional lyrics, accompanied by melancholic synths, While "Walking Aberration" finishes on a broken path, the conflicted guttural screams, choral cries and breakneck ascending guitar melodies give the listener time to finally lie down and take a rest.

Paradis makes a resounding statement with their self-titled release. There are enough intelligent songwriting and orchestral arrangements that are difficult to categorize. The band creates a unique sound, making it a fully enjoyable listen.

Rating: 4/5



SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

https://linktr.ee/paradis_band

https://open.spotify.com/artist/01IoQdAyKiw7rSNuqalgPK

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGMJxjHCYXaH9qj76iihB1Q


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