Florida hardcore punk band Zero Chill is here to ensnare listeners with their latest EP, Rat Trap. Packed with explosive energy, this tightly constructed release showcases the band’s influences while carving out their own identity in the hardcore scene. With snappy, pummeling drums, ripping thrash-inspired riffs, and nods to legends like Terror and Trapped Under Ice, Rat Trap delivers an unrelenting and dynamic experience.

The EP opens with Intro/Survival, blending a Rastafarian-tinged intro into punk-driven riffs. The track builds with bold confidence, driven by tough, well-crafted riffs and a resonant, deep bass. Explosive drums set the tone, while the transitions—including a groovy, riff-heavy outro—keep the momentum strong. Although the intro sample is slightly low in the mix, the overall flow and energy compensate, making this an impressive opener.

Always Hot turns up the heat with ferocious intensity. The relentless drums smoothly alternate between blistering speed and slower, heavier grooves, while thrashy riffs and a steady, hard-hitting bassline propel the track forward. Dynamic transitions into mosh-ready breakdowns demonstrate the band’s ability to keep listeners engaged. Minor mixing tweaks aside, this track lives up to its name with unyielding energy. Behind the Mask continues the assault with groovy, snappy drum work and a thrash-inspired riff structure. The bass adds depth and weight, anchoring the track’s hardcore punch. The vocals cut through with precision, delivering raw intensity that complements the instrumentals. The song wastes no time, hitting hard and fast with its unrelenting energy.

Stay Movin channels the spirit of hardcore heavyweights like Terror, with sharp, aggressive drum work and powerful bass tones. Seamless transitions into stomp-heavy breakdowns make this track a standout. The blend of influences from Terror and Trapped Under Ice is clear, yet the song remains distinctly Zero Chill, balancing classic hardcore vibes with fresh ideas. The EP closes with You’re a Fucking Rat, a crossover-inspired banger that fuses hardcore and thrash elements. Blistering drums take center stage, while “weedly” riffs add a unique flavor to the track. The deep, rumbling bassline provides a solid foundation, and the vocals reach their most intense, blending seamlessly into the chaos. This closer encapsulates the raw, aggressive spirit of the entire EP. Final Thoughts Rat Trap is a bold and impressive effort from Zero Chill, showcasing their ability to blend influences with tight, dynamic songwriting. From thrashy riffs and groovy basslines to powerhouse drums and commanding vocals, the EP hits all the marks for a standout hardcore release.

Despite minor volume issues, Rat Trap delivers a raw, authentic hardcore experience that pays homage to its influences while carving a space entirely its own. For fans of relentless, high-energy hardcore, this EP is a must-listen. Zero Chill – Rat Trap EP Review Florida hardcore punk band Zero Chill delivers a relentless burst of energy with their latest EP, Rat Trap. Drawing inspiration from hardcore legends like Terror and Trapped Under Ice, the band fuses snappy, pummeling drums, thrashy riffs, and resonant basslines to create a tightly constructed and dynamic release that’s unmistakably their own. Each track showcases Zero Chill’s ability to balance intensity and precision. The EP opens with Intro/Survival, blending a Rastafarian-tinged intro into punk-driven riffs and bold, explosive transitions. This momentum carries into Always Hot, where the ferocious energy of blistering drums, thrash-inspired riffs, and seamless shifts into mosh-ready breakdowns highlight the band’s knack for engagement. Behind the Mask amps up the groove with snappy drums and a deep bassline anchoring the track’s punchy riffs. The vocals shine here, cutting through with raw intensity that mirrors the song’s unrelenting drive. Stay Movin leans into sharp, stomping rhythms, delivering a fresh mix of Terror and Trapped Under Ice-inspired hardcore while maintaining Zero Chill’s signature sound.

 Closing out the EP, You’re a Fucking Rat offers a crossover-infused blend of hardcore and thrash. Blistering drum work, unique “weedly” riffs, and thunderous basslines build a chaotic yet cohesive finale that embodies the EP’s raw spirit. Rat Trap is a standout hardcore release that combines tight songwriting with undeniable energy. Minor volume issues aside, Zero Chill delivers a raw, authentic listening experience that pays homage to their influences while carving a space of their own. For fans of high-energy, no-frills hardcore, Rat Trap is a must-listen.