This EP offers a promising glimpse into the new direction of the band, serving as a refreshing and exciting start to the year. With the change in vocalists, one might expect a drastic shift in both energy and sound, but surprisingly, the band manages to maintain much of their signature style. Despite the new voice, the core essence of their music remains intact. The familiar intensity and vibe are still there, even though it takes a moment to adjust to the new vocals. Once you settle in, however, they complement the band's sound quite well.
That said, the vocal production could use a bit more clarity. The vocals, while strong, are somewhat buried in the mix, and cranking up the volume on them would allow them to stand out more, balancing better with the instrumental elements. Speaking of the instruments, the drums have a slightly rigid feel but still sound solid, providing a dependable backbone to the tracks. The guitars are where things get particularly interesting, with a heavy use of effects that give them a unique, almost elusive quality that would be difficult to replicate.
At times, the guitars venture into chaotic territory, which, though fitting for the band's experimental nature, can momentarily derail the flow of the track. Thankfully, this happens only once or twice across the EP, so it doesn’t detract too much from the overall listening experience.
As a whole, this EP is a concise, no-filler release that leaves you satisfied but still eager for more. It strikes the perfect balance between teasing new elements and staying true to what fans love about the band. It's a great example of how to make a successful transition within a band—showing that change doesn’t necessarily mean losing what made you special in the first place, while also setting the stage for what's to come. Fans will definitely appreciate this sneak peek as it builds anticipation for their next full release.
RATING:7.5/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
CTRL + C
Victim