Rambling Man's Reviews

  CoverArtwork Courtesy of San Pr Words Written by Anselm Anderson Today marks the final chapter of an emphatic trilogy by British Metalcore Heavyweights , Virtue in Vain . Nothing is All I Am ' is the third instalment exploring human emotions and psyche.  The trio began their journey in 2015 with their debut EP,  For All You Know is the Mask I Wore ,  focusing on the loss of identity, before 2019's   Dusk//Dawn looking at the consequences of a terrible night out, whilst 'Nothing is All I Am ' focuses on rebuilding a fractured mind. The trio of lead vocalist Hywel Thomas, guitarist Mason Williams, and drummer Daniel Bryant hail from South Wales deliver another dose of metalcore that hits like a sledgehammer to the head. The band replicates what many other British bands of the genre do, but they bring a story behind their music. Their emotional cries blend with powerful riffs and down-tuned instrumentals that resonate long after the music has stopped. Their...

  Cover Artwork Courtesy of Tristan Sberna Words Written by Anselm Anderson Last month, the French metalcore band Inner Light released their debut album, * Nova *, through an independent label . The female-fronted group follows the success of their two previous EPs: 2023's Inner Ligh t and Structure . Their latest release features a nine-track collection of sonically enhanced metal, characterised by blistering drums, hollow, harsh vocals, and harmonious guitars, all blended with dark atmospherics. Nova  is really the introduction to the band, following a few tasters of what they are about. Produced and mastered by Oscar Nilsson at Studio Bohus and Thomas 'Plec' Johansson at The Panic Room in Sweden. The band formed in 2022 to create music focused on dark subjects with powerful statements. Their music is melodic yet sharp, with each song offering a modern take on metal. Lead singer Marine delivers unique vocals, complemented by the diverse and dynamic guitar harmon...

  Words by Anselm Anderson British heavyweights Our North released their latest EP, Everyone for Themselves, last week. The EP consists of six tracks. Originating from Sheffield, England, this quintet has built a following over the past six years, earning praise and drawing comparisons to local favourites Bring Me The Horizon. This is understandable, as their sound captures the same energy and intensity, blending hip-hop verses with trap beats. They have developed a distinctive musical style, which continues to gain momentum. The band's sound combines hypnotic beats, visceral vocals and sonically enhanced guitars, which is described as metalcore. The theme of the album captures how people prioritise self-interest over forming empathetic relationships and showing community. Photo courtesy of San PR The album's sense of urgency effectively conveys the claustrophobic and frustrating effects these traits have on both the individual and society. The opener "Choked to Death...

  Words from Anselm Anderson                 Release Date: September 6th Metalcore band Cober Mouth , a rising star in the metal scene, has been lighting up stages and competing in prestigious competitions since their emergence five years ago. The quartet is now preparing for the release of their new EP, "Untethered," on Friday, September 6th. The five-tracker is an uncomfortable and unabashed blend of bludgeoning riffage, sinister breakdowns and emotionally unstable vocals mixed with raw and emotive lyrics, which have drawn comparisons with masked crusaders Slipknot  and contemporaries like Architects and Northlane. The band consists of vocalist Adam Jones, drummer Dylan Plenty, guitarist Lewis Cunningham and bassist Sam Windsor. Since their formation in Bristol, England, they have performed a sold-out show there and supported bands like Osiah and Drip Fed Empire. Cober Mouth  now hopes to change all that with their newest ...

Words by Anselm Anderson Previously, I reviewed a few upcoming bands from Rouen, France . Inner Light is the next in line for review, with a look at their debut EP titled "Inner Light." A female-fronted metalcore band combines harsh vocals with an energetic and melodic metal sound on their five-track release. This year has seen a slew of progressive new metal bands with a strong dynamic. Inner Light is no different, with lead vocalist Marine leading the way with her unapologetic guttural vocals. The EP's opening track features a raw and emotional brand of metal, blending technical and melodic guitar work. On " Inside My Veins " " the music builds to a scintillating and sinister climax. The thick basslines provide a crunchy edge.  Photo Credit: Sushi Photo Lab The fractious " Monsters " is next with Marine's vocals reminiscent of an enraged individual, snapping over erratic percussion. There is a sense of urgency and seriousness in the m...