The latest splits from Balmora and Since My Beloved are perfect representations of the current early 2000s metalcore revival. Both bands effectively capture the essence of the genre with tight, sharp riffs, blistering drums, and a mix of melodic and raw vocals that fit the classic sound. While the two bands share some similarities, each brings its own nuances to the table.

Balmora, for instance, has a particularly tight and dynamic rhythm section. Their guitars are razor-sharp, cutting through with intensity, and the drums have a great punch, adding energy and impact to their sound. The bass, while competent, is a bit simplistic in comparison to the rest of the instruments, but it still serves the music well. Vocally, Balmora offers a performance that works for the style, but it doesn't fully captivate. The delivery is raw and fitting, but the vocals are sometimes difficult to distinguish, and they occasionally get lost in the mix. Despite these vocal shortcomings, the production is generally solid, with no major missteps, though the tracks don't have that distinct, memorable quality that truly sticks with you after listening. The songs blend together a bit, and while they’re technically proficient, they lack that extra spark that makes them stand out.

Since My Beloved, on the other hand, faces a similar challenge in terms of memorability. They have moments where they really shine—particularly with some ripping guitar parts and groovy, rhythmic sections that add some flavor to their sound. The drumming here is also solid, complementing the overall atmosphere of the tracks. The vocals are more in line with their style, offering a performance that feels more cohesive and fitting to the tone of the music. While they match the intensity of the instrumentation, the vocals don’t necessarily push any boundaries. One of the major drawbacks for me with Since My Beloved is the bass; it's nearly impossible to pick out much of it, which leaves the low-end feeling a bit underdeveloped. The production itself is tight, and the tracks are well-executed, but again, the overall feel is that the songs tend to blend together. It’s a strong example of metalcore, with all the right elements in place, but none of the songs manage to carve out a distinct identity of their own. 

Both EPs are solid efforts with good production values, but they ultimately lack the staying power of truly memorable tracks. For fans of the genre, it’s a satisfying listen, but it might not leave a lasting impression beyond a few spins. It's metalcore at its core, but without the standout qualities that make you hit "repeat" over and over again.