Riffs of Rebellion
Power Metal
Dark SymphonyLevels: The Evolution of a Metal Phenomenon
Formed in the small town of Blackwood, England, in 2007, Levels burst onto the metal scene with a ferocity and energy that quickly established them as a force to be reckoned with. Comprised of guitarist Jake Harris, bassist Sarah Thompson, drummer Mark Evans, and vocalist Emily Wright, Levels was a powerhouse quartet that blended elements of thrash, groove, and progressive metal to create a sound that was both aggressive and melodic.
The band’s early years were marked by relentless touring and a DIY ethos that endeared them to fans and critics alike. Their debut EP, “Rise of the Fallen,” released in 2009, showcased their raw talent and songwriting prowess, earning them a loyal following in the underground metal scene. Tracks like “Into the Abyss” and “Echoes of War” displayed Levels’ knack for combining blistering riffs with haunting melodies, setting them apart from their peers.
As Levels continued to hone their craft, their sound evolved, incorporating elements of djent and metalcore into their music. The release of their debut full-length album, “Beyond the Horizon,” in 2012, marked a turning point for the band. Tracks like “The Machine” and “Fractured Reality” showcased Levels’ technical prowess and dynamic songwriting, earning them critical acclaim and further solidifying their place in the metal pantheon.
In 2015, Levels embarked on their first international tour, bringing their explosive live show to audiences across Europe and North America. The band’s reputation as a must-see act grew, as they mesmerized crowds with their tight musicianship and electrifying stage presence. Songs like “Infinite Descent” and “Bound by Blood” became anthems for a new generation of metalheads, cementing Levels’ status as one of the most exciting bands in the genre.
However, just as Levels seemed poised for mainstream success, tragedy struck. In 2017, during a tour stop in Berlin, drummer Mark Evans was involved in a serious car accident that left him with severe injuries. The band was forced to cancel the remainder of their tour dates and went on an indefinite hiatus as Evans focused on his recovery.
After a year of uncertainty and introspection, Levels regrouped in 2018, with Evans back behind the kit and a renewed sense of purpose. The band’s sophomore album, “Resurgence,” released in 2019, was a testament to their resilience and determination. Tracks like “Phoenix Rising” and “Forged in Fire” showcased Levels’ unwavering commitment to their craft, blending technical precision with emotional depth.
In the years since, Levels has continued to push boundaries and defy expectations, releasing a string of critically acclaimed albums and captivating audiences with their electrifying live performances. With a sound that is as inventive as it is powerful, Levels has proven time and time again that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of metal music.
As they look towards the future, one thing is clear: Levels is a band that refuses to be confined by genre or convention. With their innovative approach to songwriting and their unwavering passion for music, Levels is poised to continue making waves in the metal scene for years to come.
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