EP REVIEW: Afterglow – Exist Immortal

EXIST IMMORTAL have been round the old block once or twice at this stage, having ticked off some pretty sizeable accomplishments along the way, with one of their biggest to date performing at Download Festival in 2025. Longtime drummer Charlie Bines has since departed with new recruit Miles Taylor taking the reins, signalling the beginning of a new chapter for the band. After a string of standalone singles the quintet are now ready to hit the ground running with their latest body of work entitled Afterglow, which is available now via Seek & Strike.

Something, Somewhere gets stuck right in with some meaty riffing and powerful vocal bursts. Melodic swathes soon follow suit to join the punchy arrangement. The polished tone and snappy drumming neatly tie the bow on this anthemic opener. Fail To Find injects some emotive vibrancy into the equation alongside the established hooks. The personal lyrical content feels particularly relatable. An energetic surge of aggression keeps you guessing as slick lead work leaves the exclamation point.

Afterglow blends euphoric layering with hefty grooves to give some added bite. Additional impeccable solo segments hit that sweet spot. Stuck In Motion possesses a confident stride, armed with seismic heaviness. Endearing sentiments pierce through the darker elements. Shadow Work adopts a more measured approach with steady yet formidable instrumentation that transitions to an inviting, calming soundscape. Sparks of flair are scattered amongst the track before it departs on a potent, boisterous note.

EXIST IMMORTAL have never been afraid to experiment and venture into a variety of territories throughout their tenure but Afterglow feels like they have discovered their niche. There is a distinctly impressive level of cohesion as this collection flows effortlessly between light, colourful tones and brutish intensity and the confidence and conviction in their choices shines through. It will be intriguing to see how the courageous quintet continue to expand on this new sound going forward as this effort certainly leaves your interest piqued.

Rating: 8/10

Afterglow is out now via Seek & Strike.

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