EP REVIEW: RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE – Lo Rays
Self-proclaimed post-apocalyptic pop-metal band, LO RAYS, have put out their new EP RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE. The Glasgow quartet have been making waves across the UK since the release of their debut EP back in 2023 thanks to their stunning blend of metallic instrumentals against a backdrop of pop melodies and electronic beats. So far, they’ve received airplay on BBC Introducing Scotland, award nominations, and shared stages with the likes of I SEE STARS and fellow Scots VUKOVI, and that’s only the beginning.
Opening the EP, we have Scapegoat, where the atmosphere is set to moody thanks to the melodic sounds and harmonies before things kick off into a heavier territory while still maintaining a smooth production. Outside of these stunning noises are the beautiful vocals of front woman Laura Takala who can one moment go from clean, harmonic to the next where rough, brutal screams will have you in awe. All tied together nicely with a solid breakdown. And we’re only one song in.
We then move into Cease And Desist where very little time is wasted with the kick off into loud metalcore where one can only picture an insane live scene where a countdown starts and ends the opening notes of the track. Once again the blend of pop melodies, electronic beats and metallic instrumentals work beautifully together, which then carries on into the following song, Knee High. If you hadn’t considered it before, you’ll have come to a conclusion that the overall production of the EP is just stunning, and every track is its own unique experience. It’s also here that we experience a feature from AFTERLOVE who are perfectly suited for the song, which we might add gives you a sensation that you’ve been uplifted and brought back to life.
The EP is then concluded with Playing Both Sides, that draws comparison to the likes of BAD OMENS thanks to it’s industrial metal riffs against a backdrop of electronic pop beats, and Until The End, an industrial metal house track that one can picture being played in an underground party complete with pulsing bodies and flashing lights.
LO RAYS have created a stunning EP that will stay with you long after your very first listen. It’s no wonder why they’ve been making such a heavy impact within the modern rock scene.
Rating: 9/10
RE:BIRTH SEQUENCE is out now via Prime Collective.
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