Hailing from the eastern suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, metalcore band Hollow Haven return with their second EP Echo Chamber, and WOW!!!…this release is a small package of unrelenting power.
First track, Alarmist opens the EP. An absolutely disgustingly, erratic, dirty intro riff that sets the groove for this great opener. Whammy laden guitars punch through the driving bass that amalgamates this tracks structure giving it a very metallic hardcore feel. Angus Glassenburys clean vocals give the listener a very small glimpse of his vocal range diversity.
Continuing on with the second track Proving Ground. This track is has a definite Parkway Drive feel. Although this entire EP would be amazing to watch live this track has circle pit energy, with the melodic driving riffs, machine gun double kick synced in tightly with the heavy handed guitar palm mutes provided by Thomas and Angus. Small clean halftime feels break up the intensity and then slamming you up against a concrete wall again. This track will definitely have your foot tapping instantly.
The grooves keep coming with Kill The Lights. Glassenbury’s vocals are the stand out. The soaring cleans are remarkable throughout the chorus. Great solid track. Sledge is the fourth track, accompanied with a awesome video clip. Darkest Hour tainted vocals are very evident on this track. Stomping, catchy, and a halftime groove that is unsurpassed like no other. Finishing off this EP is the anger fuelled Culture Vulture. You cant resist the chaotic but catchy chorus riff that will remain impounded in your head.
Metalcore is a term/genre that nowadays can be used very loosely in what criteria is needed to deliver the classic sound. Hollow Haven tick all the boxes in regards to this genre, but with a twist. Whether your roots are metalcore or metallic hardcore, Hollow Haven will not disappoint and Echo Chamber is a
professional and a evolutionary pinnacle for this genre.
8/10
TRACKLIST
Alarmist
Proving Ground
Kill The Lights
Sledge
Culture Vulture
