ALBUM REVIEW: Kingdom Undone – Arrival Of Autumn
Canadian metalcore outfit ARRIVAL OF AUTUMN have already made waves in the metal community considering this new album Kingdom Undone is only their second full length release. Touring with the likes of IN FLAMES, this band have clearly made an impact, and listening to this new release you may see why they’ve stuck in people’s minds.
Opening track Scars gets things off to an impactful start with a mix of fast-paced drum beats and a rolling riff. We’re then introduced to frontman Jamison Friesen’s vocals which are reminiscent of the mighty Corey Taylor. This track has some pretty heavy elements, mixing hard-hitting rhythms with melodic elements in the chorus. A nice guitar solo is never unwelcome either, and this one leads into an almost GOJIRA sounding segment.
Track three, Trust, begins with a groovy riff that takes you through to an unclean verse. Lyric-wise, it definitely delivers on the sing along element, or in this case, shout along. Hitting themes of betrayal and frustration, these words are sure to hit home with a lot of listeners. Backed up by a heavy groove, it’s definitely a track to open up to.
A common theme throughout this album is that there is no lack of fast-paced intros that throw you straight into the action. Another song living up to this is Hell Comes Home. Delivering a head bopping beat, this lively track encompasses what you’d come to expect from a new wave heavy metal track, mixing gritty riffs and meaty vocals.
Liminal provides an interesting break in the album, a more atmospheric track mixing distorted beats with electronic elements. The brief calm is then interrupted by a blast of Friesen’s uncleans once again. It’s clear to see that most of the tracks on this new album would get crowds riled up, making for a gig to remember, and possibly a sore throat from all the shouting along. Burn brings together the elements heard throughout the record with meaty riffs and powerful drum rhythms, but a nice pinch harmonic element is added to create a little bit of extra spice. Who doesn’t love a good pinch harmonic? We’re also given another segment of melodic vocals which still have a sharp edge to them and make for a nice juxtaposition.
Overall, Kingdom Undone is not for those who want a chill relaxing soundtrack to do some work too. It is however for those who want to scream about their stresses and run around their living room in a mini circle pit. The mix of new wave metal sounds with some progressive elements makes for a really entertaining record.
Rating: 8/10
Kingdom Undone is set for release on May 26th via Nuclear Blast Records.
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