The initial impact of this band hits like being struck with a spear—fast and forceful, but by the time it lands, it loses its punch, almost bouncing off without leaving much of an impression. However, that doesn't mean I’m writing them off entirely. In fact, I see a lot of promise in this up-and-coming UK band, Impale. These guys have solid chemistry as a unit, and their performance suggests they know how to play to each other’s strengths. What's especially notable is the production quality on this debut EP—it’s surprisingly polished for a first release. From the opening track to the closing notes, you can tell this band has invested in their sound, and it pays off.
The guitars are engaging, offering riffs that are both fun and memorable, with plenty of hooks to keep the listener's attention. The bass also gets a chance to shine, and its presence throughout the EP is a refreshing touch. Drums are solid, though they’re not trying to make a massive statement; instead, they complement the pace of the songs, helping them move forward in a fluid way that makes the EP fly by in a good way. The drums are effective in holding everything together, though they don't steal the spotlight.
That said, the vocals are the weakest link in the chain. The production does a good job of making them sound clean, but the vocal performance itself needs some refinement. The vocalist's delivery sometimes becomes unintelligible, with words blending together, making it hard to understand what he’s singing. There’s definitely room for improvement in terms of vocal clarity and range.
Despite the vocal shortcomings, I was genuinely impressed by this brief offering from Impale. They show real potential, and with a little more polish, particularly in the vocal department, they could really take off. Keep an eye on this band—they’re definitely one to watch.
RATING: 6/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Failstate
Bury Us