ALBUM REVIEW: Limbo – Kill Strings

Sometimes, you discover a band before everyone else finds out what they’ve been missing, and KILL STRINGS‘ debut album Limbo feels like a hidden gem. The German alt-rock duo have been working on music for the last few years, but this is their first full-length release, and it’s honestly well worth the wait. Consisting of Lee (vocals, guitar) and David (drums) KILL STRINGS have created ambient, powerful rock anthems that shouldn’t be underestimated.

Opening with Whatever It Takes, the vocals immediately stand out, accompanied by a calm piano. The instrumental is atmospheric and moody, and as the drums build the track takes on a level of desperation. It’s a strong opener, enticing listeners for what is to come. Let Me Dream was the first single and a high point of the album. The unique guitar riff draws attention immediately, and the chorus is undeniably catchy. Many of the tracks follow this pattern, with powerhouse instrumentals and strong vocals, but their effects, mixing of genres and politically-charged lyrics keep each song unique. KILL STRINGS have found a perfect balance between being experimental and keeping the album consistent enough to make an impact. They’ve found their own sound, and this is clear early on in the album.

Singer Lee’s vocal range stands out on many of the tracks, varying from borderline screaming to strong, clear vocals on the slower songs. In Motion displays this while also showing a clear focus on the lyrics. While the lyrics aren’t the best element of Limbo, they are creative and beautiful, though slightly cheesy at times. At other points, the lyrics are simple but impactful, causing some tracks to become memorable and anthemic. Orange Lilies is an example of a track driven by its vocals, with its slower tempo making it almost a ballad. There is a slight autotune, which compliments Lee’s already incredible voice, and doesn’t distract from the beautiful raw emotion.

Throughout the entire album, the guitar and drums prove to be the best features. The style of guitar varies across the record, but it’s consistently powerful and upbeat. At times the mixing means the guitar can overpower the vocals, but this isn’t always a bad thing. The drums are a staple in many of the songs, as they drive through the ruthless, intense feeling the album as a whole promotes. They are essential in Black Gold, as they build up to the chorus, and eventually power the breakdown in a way that completely makes the song. It’s clear that they are musically influenced by bands like MUSE and FOO FIGHTERS, and the anthem-like Shining Star showcases this.

If you didn’t know KILL STRINGS, it would be easy to assume they’re a stadium band, and honestly, it’s fair to say they should be. Making such an aggressive impact from a debut album is something not just anybody can do, and it’s difficult not to be impressed. While they’ve definitely proven they are worth listening to, it’s clear KILL STRINGS are capable of great things, and all they need now is attention.

Rating: 9/10

Limbo is set for release on September 23rd via MNRK Heavy.

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