With Sin to Live, hardcore-infused metal band Cursebreaker delivers a raw and gritty EP that showcases their knack for blending thrashy aggression with crushing grooves. The release carries a heavy, visceral energy, though the production sometimes feels slightly muffled, which slightly tempers the impact of what could otherwise be a more explosive sound. Still, the band’s ferocity and tight musicianship come through loud and clear.

The EP kicks off with “Soul Blind,” which opens slow and heavy, setting a grimy, distorted tone right from the start. The drums hit hard and unwaveringly, driving a simple but effective riff structure that never tries to be flashy—just relentless. Vocals project powerfully throughout, with a harshness that calls to mind the intensity of All Out War’s delivery. Subtle textural riffs add a nice touch in the latter half, keeping the momentum without overcomplicating the track.

“Built to Fail” steps into denser riff territory, layered with cymbal work that helps distinguish the track’s rhythm and mood. The band takes a slightly slower, heavier approach here, incorporating striking guitar dive bombs that add atmosphere. The production feels a bit more muted this time, lending a raw, almost underground feel. The latter portion shifts gears with more blast-beat energy, injecting a visceral punch that contrasts well with the otherwise measured pace.

“Empty Shell” bursts in with thrashy, bombastic riffs featuring dissonant flourishes that create an unsettling, urgent vibe. The drums are more dynamic and fleshed out on this track, propelling the energy forward with purpose. Vocals remain wild and animalistic, perfectly matched by a bass tone that finally steps into the spotlight with a thick, grooving presence. The simple but heavy chugging breakdown near the end pairs well with the eerie dissonance of the riffs, rounding out the track’s dark atmosphere.

“Dissolve You” revisits the slower pacing, driven by those signature guitar dive bombs and “weedy” squeals from the whammy bar that give the guitars a distinct texture. The drums keep it straightforward and deliberate, with a nice galloping rhythm that builds momentum mid-track. Vocals continue to cut through with strength, even as the production retains that somewhat muffled quality. The groovy elements at the backend help lift the song, maintaining listener interest through its measured pace.

Closing the EP, “Death Race” brings a bigger, bolder sound. The production tightens up here, allowing the gritty thrash riffs and bass to hit with more clarity and punch. The track builds steadily with a solid interplay between drums and guitar before dropping into a crushing breakdown that feels earned and impactful. While Sin to Live overall doesn’t quite hit the same visceral peak as previous releases, this closer shows that Cursebreaker still have plenty of power and ferocity to offer.

Sin to Live is a solid, hard-hitting EP that blends hardcore’s raw aggression with thrash-metal groove and grit. Though the production could be sharper to better capture the band’s intensity, Cursebreaker’s tight riffs, pounding drums, and fierce vocals make this release worth your attention. Fans of heavy, no-nonsense hardcore with a metal edge will find plenty to like here.