Malefice - Awaken the Tides
Despite the scarlet letter fans of Metalcore must wear in this time when Post-whatever boredom is the bandwagon to be on, England’s Malefice continue to excel and prosper, and deservedly so. I first discovered the band four years ago on microscopic indie label Anticulture. That full-length debut album, Entities , was phenomenal and their live performances widely heralded enough to score them a deal with Metal Blade. Awaken the Tides is their second release for the label, and wisely not much has changed. Their attack is still a Thrash-infused brand of Metalcore. Vocalist Dale Butler, when he wants to, can even channel his inner James Hetfield with his cleaner vocal style. And don’t think that’s some kind of get-with-the-times, we’re-on-a-bigger-label, sell out maneuver, he’s always done that. For the most part his vocals are harsh, not unlike Trevor Phipps from Unearth. There really isn’t much mystery to this band’s success. They write good riffs, heavy and melodic with breakdowns that compliment the song rather than embody it. They write good lyrics, straight from the heart with no bullshit attached. “We are what we are.” Again, not much has been altered, if anything. They’ve even managed to somehow keep the same lineup for five years. Almost unheard of for a touring band of this genre. We’ll see how long they can keep that up. I guess with now three solid full-lengths under their belts and a real label backing them, why would anyone want to bail? From what I’ve heard, I’ve got to see this band live before I kick the bucket, and you’ve got to go get this album so you can start moshing with your cats. Favorites: “Delirium,” “Dead in the Water,” “Blessed Curse,” and “Outnumbered, Outgunned.”
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