Hailing from the deserts of New Mexico, Stacy Glow emerges with a raw, atmospheric brand of metalcore that combines heaviness with emotional depth. Their latest EP is a stark reflection of their environment, blending crushing basslines, powerful drumming, and eerie soundscapes that evoke a bleak, haunting atmosphere. While the production feels unpolished and the vocals can be hard to hear at times, the band’s talent for crafting compelling, mood-driven music shines through.

At their core, Stacy Glow channels influences from nu-metal, particularly in their Deftones-style riffing, while incorporating elements of groove and dynamic drumming that elevate their sound. The bass and drums are the backbone of this EP, consistently delivering intensity and depth, even when other elements falter. Let’s dive into the tracks:

“Blood” sets the tone with a slow, tension-building intro that gives way to gritty, bass-heavy riffs and hard-hitting drums. The Deftones-inspired riffage adds a nostalgic nu-metal flavor, while the bass tuning and rhythmic flair of the drumming stand out as highlights. The vocals, though muffled, convey an angsty rawness that matches the song’s heavy mood. The breakdown at the end feels a bit stiff, but the strong drumming helps maintain its momentum. Despite the rough production, “Blood” is a solid opener that establishes the band’s dark, gritty sound.

“Dieback” leans into a heavier, simpler style but lacks the dynamic intrigue of the opener. The bass and riffs remain dense, and the china splashes from the drums add texture, yet the song feels more straightforward and less engaging overall. Midway through, the track shifts into a slower, eerier section that injects a much-needed sense of atmosphere and tension. The riffs attempt to experiment with new scales, though their execution feels slightly rough. While not as strong as other tracks, the unsettling midsection adds a layer of depth to an otherwise simple song.

This track marks an improvement in vocal clarity, with the raw emotion cutting through the mix more effectively. The bass is dense and oppressive, paired with low, crushing riffs that anchor the song’s heavy atmosphere. The drums, while simple, bring more nuance compared to “Dieback,” adding dynamic shifts and even incorporating blast beats that, though slightly forced, add a burst of energy. “Made to Suffer” stands out as one of the stronger tracks on the EP, showcasing the band’s ability to balance heaviness with subtle emotional layers.

“No Peace” transitions smoothly from the previous track, highlighting the EP’s ability to maintain its desolate atmosphere. The band leans heavily into their eerie side here, crafting an empty, sorrowful soundscape that feels haunting and introspective. Stacy Glow’s skill in building these bleak atmospheres is on full display, making “No Peace” a standout for its emotional depth and immersive mood.

Closing the EP with a bang, “Spittin’ Teeth” is a groovy, rhythm-driven track that showcases the band’s knack for heavy, energetic songwriting. The drums steal the show with tight rhythms, pummeling beats, and creative hi-hat work that fleshes out the track. The bass remains a consistent highlight, while the riffs, though simple, complement the song’s relentless energy. While the production remains rough, the infectious groove and dynamic drumming make this a strong closer, leaving the listener on a high note.

Stacy Glow’s EP is a raw, unpolished yet promising addition to the metalcore scene. Their ability to blend crushing heaviness with bleak, haunting atmospheres sets them apart, even as the rough production and vocal clarity leave room for improvement. Tracks like “Blood,” “Made to Suffer,” and “Spittin’ Teeth” highlight the band’s potential, while the desolate ambiance of “No Peace” demonstrates their ability to evoke genuine emotion. Stacy Glow is a band with a unique voice, and with refinement, they could carve out a powerful presence in the genre.