EP REVIEW: Programmed To Coalesce – 99% Cobra

Hull’s own 99% COBRA have been creating considerable waves since their recent inception. Their no frills, hard-hitting approach which splices a range of hardcore, punk and metal influences has assisted in them achieving support slots to the likes of PALM READER, KING 810 and LOTUS EATER. The three-piece have constructed a string of singles prior to this point but it is now time for their first collective effort which is entitled Programmed To Coalesce. Will this release help elevate them further up the food chain?

The brief Intro sets the tone with ominous distorted voices declaring “The snake has found its prey…” before Drifting Apart kicks into energetic, hardcore drenched riffing, punchy drum beats and scathing screams giving a nod to the likes of EVERY TIME I DIE. Neurodeath whips up into a mathcore-like frenzy with frantic guitar work that will have your head spinning. Images of a venue resembling nothing but sheer carnage seep into your mind with the incredible ferocity that is unleashed.

Sanctuary continues the experimentation with unnerving mechanical whirring that segues straight into the title track Programmed To Coalesce. The steady but boisterous stride lures you into its grasp with some chaotic outbursts of instrumentation. Towards the midway point the track descends into booming bass beats which abruptly returns to the ongoing anarchy. Beautiful Debris picks up the tempo and sprints towards the finish line with swathes of crunchy riffing and swift drumming which climaxes in utter mayhem to add that final flourish.

Despite the fact that two of the six tracks on offer were brief soundbites and a feeling that it passed all too quickly Programmed To Coalesce displays a lot of promise with its broad variation of styles. In order to stand out in such a hotly contested division you need to be brave and not fear getting creative and this is exactly what 99% COBRA have achieved with this effort. It will be intriguing to see their next course of action and what direction proceeding material will take going forward.

Rating: 7/10

Programmed To Coalesce is out now via self release.

Like 99% COBRA on Facebook.