CD Review: Counterfeit Culture - Deathwish (Melodic Metalcore, 2017)

A melodic metalcore release doing things a different way. I was surprised listening to this one.

Having looked through this blog I've noticed lately that there isn't any metalcore up yet. So as the chance came around to review this one I packed it with both hands since the description sounded promising. A band mixing metalcore with several influences like alternative was something I had not experienced before so I gave it a shot.

The cover of Counterfeit Culture's EP "Deathwish", (c) by Counterfeit Culture, used with kind permission

Summary

Of course there are the typical elements to be found - the bold sound, the heavy vocals and hard drums. But beside that there are a lot of variations and unusual things to be found. It starts with the way the songs are build - I've not heard metalcore songs with such a span of variation before.

It starts already with opener "Apothecary". The first half has only slight and softer guitar parts with it. The track turns and evolves to a more heavier piece of music. Anyway it's still different - the track remains a bit slower in terms of tempo and the vocals also provide change all the while.

"Second Soul"  starts out more metalcore typical but won't do so for a long time. The drums give a fresh whirl before things begin to become static. The whole pattern changes in the last third to a more slower formula. I like this for all the way the drums show that they can dominate a track at times and push it into a new direction every here and there.

The EP closes out with "X".  It mixes a rough edgy beginning just to move over to some soft notes. To me it's the most intensive song of the three-song-pack. It's a fine demonstration how to go a slower and more below-the-line attempt in a melodic metalcore song.

Preview Track and Purchase-Link

I've picked one song out of the release for you as a quick check out track. Make sure to support Counterfeit Culture with a purchase of the EP at the band's webshop. The EP comes out 1st August 2017. You can pick up the tracks digitally right now on all standard plattforms such as Apple Music or Spotify if you don't want to wait until August.


Contact Data

Tune in to the social channels of the band at Facebook or Twitter.

Flames Of Fury look for bassist and release new video

A good band always needs proper people to be able to continue on their journey. Sadly from time to time band members have to leave because of various reasons and it's not always easy to find new musicians who fit musically as well as clicking on the human side of things.

The same goes for New York / New Jersey based female fronted melodic power metal band Flames of Fury who are currently on the lookout for a new bass guitar player. Vocalist Angelica Valkyrie has checked in with a statement about the change in the band and the requirements the new four string player should meet:

"We are now actively seeking a permanent bassist to join the band and perform on future tours. Currently Flames of Fury is performing with bassist Mike LePond (Symphony X / Mike LePond's Silent Assassins). We have been so happy and honored to have Mike LePond perform with us onstage as our guest bassist, as he's definitely extremely busy! So now, the band has come to a crossroads, where we really have to have a permanent bassist with us for future touring. So help us get the word out to all potential candidates, as we are counting on securing a worthy replacement to join the band permanently. Interested candidates can contact Flames of Fury directly at: info@flamesoffury.com "

The band Flames Of Fury, (c) by Flames Of Fury, used with kind permission

In the meantime the band is laying down the finishing touches to their debut full length album "Firestarter", which is scheduled for a independent release later in the year. To help skip the waiting time until more news about the release come in the band has set up a lyric video for the fan favorite "I Burn".

Valkyrie says about the video:

"We have wanted to give back to our loyal fans who have been with us from the very beginning, so we went back to our debut EP release and chose the song "I Burn" and immortalized it in a killer new lyric video. This song has been a fan favorite since our humble beginnings. Our desire has always been to create a video for it and now we finally have it. It's crazy, dark and Metal AF!"

Make sure to stay in touch with the band through their homepage or connect with them on Facebook.