ALBUM REVIEW: Extinction(s) – Unearth
Since the release of 2014’s Watchers Of Rule album metalcore heroes UNEARTH have been touring relentlessly around the world. After a painstaking four year wait it is now time for the Boston outfit to treat us to some new material in the form of new album Extinction(s) which is now out for release via Century Media Records. Has this gap between releases helped or hindered this effort? Let’s find out!
Incincerate quickly reacquaints you with the energy UNEARTH are capable of as you are instantly confronted with a wall of hard hitting riffs. It becomes quickly evident that frontman Trevor Phipps has been working on diversifying his vocal range as it cuts through the mix like a chainsaw through butter. Beautifully executed sweeps come to the forefront towards the latter stages showing there are no signs of rust on the Boston outfit. Dust sees the return of the authentic metalcore sound which brought UNEARTH to the dance, causing many bands to follow in their footsteps. Impeccable intricacy runs throughout as dual axe wielders Buz McGrath and Ken Susi put on yet another guitar masterclass. Second single Survivalist brings some downtuned ferocity to the table with blood curdling screams and a breakdown so intense it could give THY ART IS MURDER a run for their money. Sticksman Nick Pierce‘s time working alongside KILLSWITCH ENGAGE legend Adam D has certainly paid off as the drumwork is unrelenting and suits the ongoing chaos perfectly.
Cultivation Of Infection slows the tempo down temporarily with an ominous echoing intro before bursting into frantic drumming and groove ridden riff work. Whilst maintaining their signature melodic subtleties UNEARTH are pulling absolutely no punches, feeling more invigorated than ever. The Hunt Begins throws another barrage of riffs from all angles with jarring velocity. As the track progresses swathes of melodic lead work charge forth adding an extra element of vibrancy to the arrangement.
Hard Lined Downfall ramps up the carnage with SLIPKNOT-like intensity. Phipps‘ growls become ever more vicious as every instrument goes into lightspeed, audibly depicting the armageddon. The unnerving vibes of King Of The Arctic come to fruition with impactful, dramatic riffing and pulsating drums. The musicianship is intoxicating as impressive Just when you thought Extinction(s) couldn’t possibly get any heavier, in comes Sidewinder. Whilst shorter in comparison to its compatriots it provides one of the most ferocious pit inducing tracks constructed all year. The searing screams will raise the hairs on the back of your neck as the utter devastation runs rampant.
No Reprisal dials down the mayhem slightly as powerful melodic riffs shine through. The momentum still stays elevated however with emphatic blast beats and a groovy pace. One With The Sun ensures Extinction(s) stays intense until the very end with crazy riff work and an energetic, uplifting mood. As the track draws to a close the melody flows one final time before concluding in a poignantly calming fashion.
UNEARTH have returned firing in all cylinders with an album built for the stage. Previous effort Watchers Of Rule divided opinion but Extinction(s) is a captivating resurgence of everything we have come to love about UNEARTH with added focus and intensity. For a band to release their strongest album 20 years deep into their career is a testament to their drive, devotion and commitment to music. They have already inspired an entire generation and with Extinction(s) they have continued to show why they’re still up there with the cream of metalcore.
Rating: 9/10
Extinction(s) is available now via Century Media Records.
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