Raptured has returned with a fresh demo and an exciting new lineup, ready to shake things up with a sound that’s both familiar and yet distinctly different from their previous work. Known for their chaotic, hardcore roots, the band has shifted gears towards a style that’s more refined, with a noticeable emphasis on groove. While still energetic, the new direction feels more controlled, with elements that show growth and maturity in their approach to music.
One of the most significant changes in this new demo is the drumming. Right out of the gate, the drums feel slightly off-kilter—loud and a bit out of sync with the rest of the band. At first, this makes the song feel almost disorienting, but as the track progresses, the rhythm section begins to settle into a more cohesive groove. It’s clear that the band is experimenting, and while the drumming may feel a bit rough at first, it gradually builds momentum and starts to fit with the overall flow of the song.
The guitars, too, are exploring new territory. The playing feels more dynamic, with inventive riffs and occasional pinch harmonics adding texture and flair. These new elements give the music an exciting and unpredictable quality, distinguishing this demo from their earlier, more abrasive sound. The rhythm section, however, is a bit more understated. The bass, in particular, seems less prominent in the mix, and while it might not stand out as much in terms of volume, it’s still felt in the foundation of the tracks, providing a solid, underlying presence that supports the overall vibe.
The band’s vocalist is as intense as ever, maintaining the fiery energy that has always been a trademark of Raptured’s sound. They continue to ride the wave of the songs, delivering their lines with passion and power. While the music may be shifting towards a more groove-oriented direction, the vocalist’s delivery remains rooted in the high-octane style that fans will recognize and appreciate.
The most intriguing aspect of the demo, however, is the shift in song structure. The tracks are shorter, more concise, and tightly packed with energy, which works surprisingly well for this new direction. The quicker pace helps keep the songs punchy and engaging, never overstaying their welcome and leaving the listener wanting more.
That said, the production could use some refinement, particularly with the mix of the drums and bass. The drums, especially in the intro, feel a little too dominant and lack the clarity that could make the rhythm section really pop. The bass, on the other hand, while it provides a solid backbone, could be more present in the mix to add depth to the overall sound. However, aside from those minor issues, everything else about the production is solid, and the band's new sonic direction is certainly promising.
While the new sound starts off a little shaky, it’s clear that Raptured is exploring exciting new territory. With a bit more polishing and refinement, they’re well on their way to crafting a sound that is uniquely their own. Fans of the band will likely find this shift both challenging and intriguing, and there’s a lot of potential here for them to grow into this new phase of their musical journey.
RATING: 7.5/10
NOTIABLE TRACKS:
Misery Loves Company
F.U.B.A.R.
Culture Killer