EP REVIEW: Black Coast – Black Coast
Ever since they released their debut album Outworld in 2021, BLACK COAST have been just waiting to explode onto the scene. Combining all things heavy, with elements of hardcore, nu-metal and grunge, it is no wonder the band have gained the attention of both critics and the underground scene. However, it could very well be this self-titled EP that really makes them household names.
Right from the opening guitar riff on Real (Are You Listening?), it is clear that this EP is determined to grab your attention. Its instantly catchy chorus will get stuck in your head for days and also make you want to mosh around the room. Although the mellow verses do sometimes let the song down a bit as they slow the pacing down, the chorus more than makes up for it. Charlie Hewitt is an absolute riot as a singer, easily switching from screaming to singing.
However, if the eardrum-bursting first song wasn’t your cup of tea, do not worry. This EP has something for everyone. Chains lures you in gently with its indie rock sound before pouncing at you with a hardcore breakdown. This song manages to blend the two genres together, allowing Hewitt to flex his singing voice. However, it is guitarists Scott Pinnington and Joe Mayer who are the real stars here. Their riffs make this song even bigger, and will work fantastic in a live setting.
Sex is a slow and sultry song, which is appropriate given the title. Bassist Jack Beardsall – who at this point been mostly lost in the chaos – gets his time to shine. The song also shows off a different side to BLACK COAST, who can switch from screaming metal one song to slow and mellow the next.
Mercy shows a grungey side to the band, with a bit of metal thrown in for good measure. No One is a fast-paced hardcore song. These two closing songs are fantastic and show that BLACK COAST are capable of mixing things up in order to keep things fresh. In fact, this EP shows that the band are not here to play around. They mean business. Whilst not all the songs hit as hard as the opening song, the overall pacing of the EP is fast-paced, and all the songs fit. No song sounds like it should belong on the cutting room floor. There is something for everyone on this EP.
Overall, if you are looking for something that will get you to stand up and scream as well as something for you to dance to, then check out the new BLACK COAST EP. Covering a significant range of rock and metal, this is a widely accessible EP. Both the vocals and the instruments are fantastic, and the pacing of the songs means that – despite only being five songs long – the EP does not drag on or feel rushed. It is clear that BLACK COAST are dedicated to their music. This EP could very well be the one that throws them into the mainstream rock scene. Trust us: this EP is best listened to with the volume turned all the way up. It is a triumph.
Rating: 9/10
Black Coast is set for release on April 28th via self-release.
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