EP REVIEW: WAKE THE BLIND - BROKEN CASKET
Wake the Blind, a nu-metalcore band from Melbourne, Victoria, will be turning heads with their debut EP, ‘Broken Casket’. Exploring themes of “suicide, drugs, murder and domestic violence,” their five-track EP delves into subjects often considered uncomfortable, but subjects that need to be brought up none the less. You’ll definitely want to give it a spin!
Their first track Patient, featuring David De La Hoz of bands Bellehaven and Wither, tells the story of a patient subjected to neglect and mistreatment. Under the unjust care of De La Hoz’s character, the patient has a breakthrough, realising that the abuse is hindering their recovery. Musically, this realisation is represented by a breakdown, and a good one at that.
The beginning of Nix highlights the ‘nu’ part of nu-metalcore, with heavily distorted, programmed elements before the drums come in with extra attack. The half-time break in the middle was a definite standout for me! The chorus features beautiful vocal melodies, and serves as a plea for help, once again raising awareness for mental illnesses and their severe impact on people’s lives.
Wake the Blind’s third track, X2, starts out with distorted guitars, before the drums join in, taking the lead. Overall the song uses an energetic combination of heavy metal and programmed elements to showcase their strengths as a band. The subtle piano during the outro was a nice change of pace to blend into their next track.
Casket has a slightly different tone from the rest of the songs. After the hard-hitting intro, it features strong clean vocals with a mellow guitar sound. The gradual buildup that follows leaves you on the edge of your seat wanting more. The kick in is worth the wait, trust me!
The final track Teeth is the perfect conclusion to their EP. Beginning with a seamless techno transition from Casket, the instruments come in with a mini buildup, immediately resulting in listeners head-banging along. Discussing themes of unease and anxiety about speaking up, Wake the Blind once again provide another song for people to relate to and identify with.