Open World, a fresh and emerging hardcore band from San Antonio, Texas, is here to blast through your speakers with an intense, no-holds-barred sound that is sure to grab your attention. If you’re a fan of raw, high-energy hardcore, this band is here to deliver exactly that—hardcore in its most unapologetic, face-melting form. Their debut demo introduces a blend of aggressive grooves and sharp, shreddy guitars that set the stage for what promises to be a powerful sonic assault.
The guitars on this demo are a driving force, carrying the songs with their gnarly riffs and tight, shredding solos. They’re not just fast and furious, but also rhythmically engaging, locking into a groove that will have your head banging from start to finish. The bass, while not overly flashy, complements the guitars perfectly, adding texture and depth to the overall sound. It sits nicely in the mix, providing the low-end muscle that grounds the band’s heavy riffs, without ever overpowering the more aggressive elements of their sound.
The percussion on this demo is another standout, with punchy, tight drums that provide both power and groove. It’s clear that the drummer is in sync with the band’s vision, delivering rhythms that keep the energy high while also ensuring that the songs never lose their sense of movement. There’s a palpable sense of urgency to the drumming, propelling the tracks forward with precision.
When it comes to production, this demo holds up well. It’s clear that the band has worked hard to make sure every element shines, with a balanced mix that doesn’t sacrifice any of the intensity. The raw energy of the hardcore genre is present, but the recording quality is solid enough that you can appreciate the individual components of each track. The production doesn’t feel overdone, but rather highlights the grit and authenticity that is crucial for a band in this genre.
That said, there are a few areas where Open World still has room to grow. One noticeable issue is the transitions between some of the songs, which can feel a bit stiff or awkward at times. It seems like the band might still be working out some kinks in their timing and flow, and in a few moments, the shifts between sections or the changes in tempo don’t come across as fluid as they could. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s something that occasionally takes you out of the experience.
Another aspect that stands out is the vocals. While the vocalist’s performance is full of passion and intensity, there are moments when it feels like his voice doesn’t quite match the energy or the rhythm of the music. Whether it’s his vocal register or slight timing issues, there are moments when his delivery seems a bit offbeat with the rest of the band. Again, it’s not a huge issue, but it’s noticeable enough to make you wonder if a little more fine-tuning in this area could help solidify their sound even further.
Overall, Open World’s debut demo is a solid first step, offering a raw and exciting glimpse of what this band is capable of. While there are a few rough edges to smooth out, the band’s energy and potential are undeniable. They’ve got the right mix of aggression, groove, and technicality that makes hardcore music so thrilling to listen to. If they continue to refine their sound, Open World is sure to become a force to be reckoned with in the hardcore scene.
RATING: 7/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
No Way 2 Live
Ruse