Whenever a band rises from the ashes or contains other members of others, it draws eyes. Comparison is impossible to ignore, no matter the previous projects and most often, if the bands involved have a certain level of legacy, those comparisons can crush a band before they begin to gain momentum.
Containing members of legendary ‘core acts such as Stampin’ Ground and Romeo Must Die, Fates Messenger are posed as a formidable proposition from the off, even tempting the phrase “supergroup” into the conversation. Add in the production credentials of Stu McKay (Desolated, Ingested) and you’re surely in for a bruising, battering time.
Their early singles from this new effort, Eternal War heralded tremendous promise, blending the band’s various influences and experiences into an uncompromising metallic hardcore sound that would sound as much at home in the late 90’s as it does today. ‘Hellstorm’ kicks things off viciously, in a whirlwind of drums and riffs that are just right in terms of sharpness with a hint of ramshackle. Featuring a chorus that brings to mind the vocals and cadence of modern Sylosis and enough seismic groove to make an elephant unsteady, it’s a brilliant start. Soon to follow is the title track, which contains a mighty guest vocal feature by one of the most underrated heavy vocalists of all time, Tim Williams from Vision Of Disorder and his legendary rasp adds another layer of grit and bug-eyed intensity to a track that’s already kicked you in the ribs and spat in your face.
At this point in the members’ career, they’re making music that they want to make and it’s incredibly clear that they’re all having a blast on this record. Each song, while lyrically dealing with a world that is slowly, passively falling into a seemingly inescapable darkness, sonically has a level of fun to proceedings. You’ll want to scream along, bang your head and try to air drum along (likely in vain, there’s some mighty percussion on this EP) while having a very good time. There’s even a cover of one of the most legendary hardcore songs of all time on here in ‘Master Killer’ by Merauder and you know what, it’s a bloody good go at it. It lacks a bit of the originals swag and perhaps sounds a little too polished but even having the balls to attempt it shows the level of musicians we’re dealing with here.
There’s a few moments where the songs maybe do drag a little and some parts can seem a little superfluous but for the most part, the band make the most of the time they have and throw enough ideas into the mix to keep your interest. It doesn’t break any new ground to be sure, but the path it walks, though well trodden is a satisfying and familiar one. Filled with mosh moments, hefty breakdowns and some catchy vocal lines, this is a culmination of talents and experience to a very high degree. It’ll kick you in the skull while simultaneously making you think you can take on the world.