ALBUM REVIEW: Energy – Immerse
Bristol-based outfit IMMERSE bring forth their new album Energy, and to be quite honest, the album is very aptly named, as the band are known for bringing a certain buzz of electricity to their music.
The first track False Culture opens with a rolling guitar riff which brings the “Energy”, if you’ll excuse the pun. This transcends into a mix of steady beats and layered, echoed vocals. This effect gives the vocals added depth, feeling like they’re being shouted from a corner of a room, grabbing your attention. There’s a playful sound to the song, and whilst the lyrics are no joke, the vibe of the track is groovy and fun. A breakdown section towards the end introduces a slightly more aggressive vocal on the drop, paired with the riff from earlier. There’s also some synth/electronic elements added throughout, which brings a modern twist to the track.
Third track Freaky opens with a metalcore sounding intro, hard-hitting beats paired with a lower tuned riff. It makes for a really bouncy feeling which is then further elaborated on when the verse picks the pace up. The pre-chorus plays around with the tempo slightly, making it more fun as the track keeps you guessing throughout. Just when you think it’s all over, the guitars are turned down, an eerie sound being produced, before the whole song drops and begs for you to bang your head.
Elsewhere, All I Know Is You is one for the feels. If you need a song to turn up to full volume and sing your heart out to, then this is the one. A nice combination of guitars, drums and an electronic melody lead up perfectly to emotionally-charged chorus. The lyrics are hard hitting and relatable, just what you need for a heartfelt track. The sound created is honestly beautiful, and makes you want to hit the replay button as soon as it’s finished.
On a completely different side of the spectrum is a track like Static. The heavier side of IMMERSE comes to play here, diving in with some of the heaviest vocals on the entire record. As is a trope in a lot of metalcore tracks, the chorus features clean vocals whilst the verses are boisterous. The clean vocals are almost reminiscent of Toby Duncan of TRASH BOAT – a certain pop punk meets hardcore twang. And why have a heavy song on the album if you’re not going to include a meaty breakdown? IMMERSE do just that. The intermittent riff paired with fast paced drum beats creates an impact and a whole lot of groove. We’re even treated to a brilliant “urgh“/”blegh” mix – a hard to describe sound, but definitely metal. That’s how you end a song.
Overall, IMMERSE have created a metalcore, pop-punk, electronic fusion album in the form of Energy, and it’s one hell of a good time. Filled with catchy choruses and entertaining switch ups, it keeps you guessing throughout and is just a whole lot of fun.
Rating: 9/10
Energy is set for release on December 8th via Adventure Cat Records.
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