Candy Has Flipped the Hardcore Script: A Masterpiece of Raw Power
Candy has absolutely done it—taken their hard-hitting, genre-bending style of hardcore to a whole new level with their latest EP. This New York-based band has perfected their craft by distilling everything they’re great at into a tight, unrelenting package that will leave you breathless. From heavy riffs to experimental sounds, blasting drums, unhinged vocals, dirty bass tunings, and flawless run times, this EP is everything that makes Candy stand out in the hardcore scene—and then some. This is a record that’s pure, uncompromising candy, and it’s exactly what hardcore fans have been craving.
The EP kicks off with a bang on the opening track "Flipping", which hits you right in the face with its heavy riffs, punchy drums, and hypnotic basslines. There’s a raw, gritty energy that cuts through the track like a razor blade. The vocals are dark and visceral, channeling an intensity that feels almost unhinged, while the DJ scratching effects add a touch of nu-metal/industrial flair, giving the song a whole new dimension. The way this track blends hardcore with those experimental touches is simply electrifying, setting the tone for what’s to come.
Next, we move into "Tzu Breed", where the band takes things even further with an infusion of industrial hardcore that’s both chaotic and calculated. The riffs are as heavy as they come, with a sense of controlled mayhem that will leave your head spinning. As the song progresses, they skillfully introduce some synths, adding an unexpected yet welcomed layer to the sound. Subtle yet hard-hitting double kick drums intensify the song, building up to a breakdown that’s so tight, it feels like the whole song is collapsing in on itself. The transition here is flawless, making this track a standout.
The third track, "Football", brings in some death metal influences, showcasing just how versatile Candy is. The blast beats are crisp and clean, adding that chaotic energy, while the riffs are thick and brutal, making the song feel like a sonic assault. Just when you think the track is winding down, they hit you with a destructive breakdown that leaves a lasting impact. It’s short, sweet, and absolutely devastating—a perfect example of the band's ability to pack a punch in just a few minutes.
“Endless” shifts gears a bit, leaning into a heavy punk style with tighter-than-ever drums and groovy riffs that cut through the mix with sick, deep tunings. The track is packed with energy, and the drumming is the true star here, pounding away with precision and force. It’s a song that’s as hard-hitting as it is infectious, keeping you on the edge of your seat the entire time.
The fifth track, “Punish”, kicks things into high gear with dirty, bouncy riffs and a deep, thunderous drum sound that’s impossible to ignore. The DJing adds an interesting twist, breaking up the heavy rhythm with some creative, almost experimental elements. The vocals on this one are packed with fire and anger, spitting out lyrics that feel charged with pure emotion. The track builds into a massive breakdown, and once it hits, you’ll find yourself caught in its tidal wave of heaviness. It’s like a heavier, more intense version of Hatebreed, with a twist of Candy’s signature sound.
Finally, the EP closes with “Stench”, a track that starts off slow and menacing, building tension with its heavy, sludgy riffs. The bass is particularly thick on this one, adding a deep, groovy texture to the track that feels almost hypnotic. As the song progresses, it opens up into a disgustingly heavy section that’s hard to ignore. The breakdowns hit with such force that you feel them in your bones, and it’s a fitting end to this absolutely punishing record.
Throughout the EP, the production and song arrangements are nothing short of phenomenal. Each track is well thought out, with a perfect balance of heaviness and subtlety that showcases how incredibly talented Candy is. The band has a meticulous approach to their sound, and it’s evident in every note. It’s crazy to think that with each release, Candy continues to evolve and get better, but then again, it’s no surprise—they take pride in perfecting their craft, and they’ve never shown any signs of putting out anything less than their best.
With this new EP, Candy has truly proven their place in the hardcore scene. They’ve crafted a record that’s filled with raw emotion, innovative sounds, and an unrelenting energy that fans will be talking about for a long time. If you haven’t heard this EP yet, you’re missing out—Candy has arrived, and they’re bringing the noise in the most brutal way possible.
RATING: 10/10
NOTABLE TRACKS:
Flipping
Football
Horse Crazy