EP REVIEW: Dines X Heafy – Jared Dines & Matt Heafy

Common sense suggests that just like in all other forms of media: the music equivalent of the internet sensation/established figure crossover is likely to be, well, terrible. Usually coming across as a speedy money grab more than anything else – your scepticism of the concept is justified. And despite Jared Dines being a tremendous musician and online personality, putting him in the company of long time TRIVIUM figurehead Matt Heafy is a bold move.

Thankfully then, Dines X Heafy never comes close to throwing egg in its own face. To be more accurate: it’s a concise, sharp summary of modern metal. Though occasionally too heavily aimed at the TRIVIUM fanbase when the possibility for variety was staring them in the face – Jared and Matt come together to piece together a slick, impressive EP.

The opening one-two of Dear Anxiety and Can We Turn Back Yesterday both begin proceedings with a swaggering, rock and roll flex, but they soon manifest themselves into numbers that mimic Heafy‘s day job. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with the approach, and there’s rarely a bad time to hear Matt slithering across his fret board, but given Dines‘ wide metal palette, and that both had no pre-existing expectations to match with the collaboration: you’d expect at least a few sharp turns.

Predictable? Yes, lethargic? Never. And where Dines X Heafy earns its credibility is in its arena ready, anthemic punch. We Lost It All has an irresistible heart to its sweeping guitar lines, while trying to listen to Dying At The Sight Of Rain without pulling your air guitar out is a challenge. Jared and Matt might play by the rule book, but at least they do it well.

Despite remaining grounded when there was no real reason to stay there, Dines X Heafy is a worthwhile venture for any modern metal fan. Unlike other crossovers, this is far from a mere ploy to keep two names in the spotlight. Instead, Matt Heafy and Jared Dines have come together to create something that might be unambitious, but it’s solid all the same.

Rating: 7/10

Dines X Heafy is out now via Roadrunner Records.

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