More UK hardcore in the form of the "Baphomet" split 7" between Alaska and End Reign comes co-released by UK labels Fist in the Air Records and Worthless Nights Records. Alaska kicks things off with an absolutely excellent sample over feedback and subtly sludgy riffing before breaking into some straightforward, no bullshit metallic hardcore driven by crunchy midpaced power chords and vicious shouting vocals. Some slightly noisier textures pop up on rare occasion, as do some great little arpeggiated riffs with some eerie melodic tendencies. End Reign then follows with a very similar approach that keeps things more rugged and stripped down production-wise, not to mention a vocal style that's much harsher and more blown out. Still, expect more driving midpaced rhythms, forceful breakdowns, and some unexpected bits and pieces of cool dissonance creeping into place here and there. When all is said and done you've got four songs in 13 minutes, and this is a perfectly matched split 7". The similarities between these bands' writing styles are pretty uncanny, but they still manage to maintain their own identities. Good stuff.
Alaska "Mark of Life" (excerpt)
End Reign "Release the Wolves" (excerpt)
This one's limited to just 500 copies (150 on clear and 350 on transparent blue), so snag one now if you like what you hear, as usual...
Comments
A raging debut for both these young bands. Hopefully a taster of goo things to come.
11.23.2010 | By ironhalo