They say “slow and steady wins the race”, but groove and melody will always prevail. And that’s what you will find encapsulated into this new EP by West Australians Bayview Suspect.
First track and first single released from Survival or Ruin is Until Dusk and from the very get go, the melodic vibe is evident. Flourishing guitar legato intro over the stomping rhythms cascading into a melting pot of modern metal goodness and popping and sliding bass lines into the not overly exaggerated break downs is definitely a clever approach.
A bit more faster pace, and still keeping the melodic groove is second track Renouncing Compliance. John Callaghan’s raspy vocals are like a rabid cobra spitting his venom, elements of metal/deathcore progression wrap up this track nicely.
Clocking in at just over 1 minute is the instrumental track Force Fed which is slightly reminiscent of old At The Gates, a nice little atmospheric interlude.
Moving through to Belly Full Of Lies, this track has so much going on. So dynamic in every way. The opening riff is unbelievably catchy, a credit to guitarist Brody Lawrance for the hooks flying left right and centre and drummer Luke Specter accurately meshing his fills and double kicks to absolute perfection. A very cleverly crafted track.
The second single release is Laced with Deception. This mosh pit monster will have you ready for war with the chaotic intro transitioning into a smooth melodic pre-chorus. The onslaught continues with break down after break down.
Bonus track Aftermath is another hook laden track with extremely clean riffing guitar passages that will etch into your memory receptors for days. A very Black Dahlia Murder influence entwined into this amazing track with another outstanding vocal performance by John Callaghan combining savage lows with higher raspiness.
Probably the most brutal track is Paralysis. This last track is straight to the point, anger fueled savagery. Death core influences reign through with a interesting lead break.
If you’re after an album with an absolute barrage of hooks, grooves and head exploding break downs, Survival or Ruin by Bayview Suspect is definitely your jam!!
8.5/10
TRACKLIST
Until Dusk
Renouncing Compliance
Watch Those Catch Light
Force Fed
Belly Full Of Lies
Laced With Deception
Aftermath [Bonus Track]
Paralysis [Bonus Track]
