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EP Review: The Larches- Nihilistic Majesties


Photo courtesy of San PR

Words by Anselm Anderson


North Eastern English five-piece The Larches are set to release their latest EP Nihilistic Majesties on July 24th. The band have worked to change their sound from an indie setup to a more, dissonant sludge metal sound.

On this five-track release, the songs are drenched in thick, discordant riffs paired with snarling vocals and a groove-oriented vibe, creating a chaotic and disillusioned sound. "Nihilistic Majesties" explores themes of collapse, isolation and endurance. Themes any upcoming band aims to overcome in a tough industry to breakthrough. Formed in 2023, the band arrives from Middlesborough, England. I only know it more for their industrial side , rather than anything else. However, The Larches aims to reflect their grievances in the only way they know how. The band consists of lead vocalist Noah Annandale, lead guitarist Sonny Evans, Rhythm guitarist Joel Hardwick, bassist Alfie Murphy and drummer George Moss.


Photo Courtesy of Katy Gettings

The EP kicks off  with the heavy sound of distortion and feedback-laden tone on "Raxidermy," the band delivers a crushing blow, paired with thick, sickening breakdowns that leave goosebumps standing.

Fan favourite "Smother the Hero" follows with cleaner vocals, its chorus sticking in the mind over groove-oriented riffs. The tone is dark and dissonant, creating an intense, claustrophobic vibe. "Corrosion of Consciense" features thick, monstrous blues riffs ,whilst "Drought" is the more melancholic track on the album. The album finishes with the heavy Groove metal on "Dopeslut".

Nihilistic Majesties gives the band a chance to showcase their solid songwriting skills, crafting tracks that are both catchy and atmospheric. Each song tells a different story and highlights another side of the band’s arsenal. The album delivers crushing riffs, a heavy, pounding rhythm section, and raw, unhinged vocals that capture the band’s signature sludge metal sound.

The Larches are set to release their very own take on sludge metal on July 24th. Expect to find "Nihilistic Majesties" via all major streaming platforms.





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