Album Review: Northlane – Mirror’s Edge EP

🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: 1. Aspire
Track 2: 2. Dream Awake
Track 3: 3. Masquerade
Track 4: 4. Scarab
Track 5: 5. Paradigm

🎸 Album Review:
Australian metalcore band Northlane has once again pushed the boundaries of their genre with their latest EP, ‘Mirror’s Edge’. Released on November 19, 2021, this five-track collection showcases the band’s evolution and maturity in both sound and lyrical content.

From the opening track ‘Aspire’, it is evident that Northlane is on a mission to deliver a sonic experience that is both powerful and thought-provoking. The EP kicks off with a burst of energy, driven by aggressive guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and frontman Marcus Bridge’s dynamic vocals. “Aspire” sets the tone for the rest of the EP, with its intense atmosphere and introspective lyrics that delve into themes of self-discovery and personal growth.

‘Dream Awake’ continues the sonic assault with its relentless pace and intricate guitar work. The track showcases Northlane’s ability to seamlessly blend melodic hooks with crushing breakdowns, creating a sound that is both catchy and heavy. Bridge’s vocals shine on this track, effortlessly transitioning from clean melodies to guttural screams, adding depth and emotion to the music.

‘Masquerade’ slows things down slightly, allowing the listener to catch their breath before diving back into the chaos. This track explores themes of identity and self-deception, with lyrics that are both poetic and introspective. The haunting melodies and atmospheric instrumentation create a sense of unease, drawing the listener into Northlane’s introspective world.

‘Scarab’ stands out as one of the most experimental tracks on the EP, blending electronic elements with crushing metalcore riffs. The track’s dark and brooding atmosphere is enhanced by Bridge’s haunting vocals, creating a sense of tension and intensity that is palpable. ‘Scarab’ showcases Northlane’s willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territory, cementing their reputation as innovators in the metalcore scene.

The EP closes with ‘Paradigm’, a track that serves as a fitting conclusion to the journey that ‘Mirror’s Edge’ takes the listener on. The song is an emotional rollercoaster, with soaring choruses and blistering breakdowns that leave a lasting impact. Bridge’s vocals are particularly impressive on this track, delivering raw emotion and power that resonates long after the music fades.

In comparison to Northlane’s previous albums, ‘Mirror’s Edge’ represents a natural progression in their evolution as a band. While the EP retains the signature elements that have defined Northlane’s sound – heavy riffs, intricate rhythms, and emotive vocals – it also sees the band exploring new sonic territory and pushing their creative boundaries. The electronic elements and experimental textures present on ‘Mirror’s Edge’ add a fresh dimension to Northlane’s music, showcasing their growth and versatility as artists.

Overall, ‘Mirror’s Edge’ is a powerful and captivating release that solidifies Northlane’s status as one of the most innovative bands in the metalcore genre. The EP is a testament to the band’s artistic vision and creative prowess, showcasing their ability to craft complex and engaging music that resonates on both a visceral and emotional level. With ‘Mirror’s Edge’, Northlane has once again proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy music, and this EP is sure to leave a lasting impact on listeners for years to come.