Canadian extreme groove metallers Without Mercy have released “Glass,” the second single and visualizer from their upcoming EP Infinite Loss, arriving May 8, exclusively through BraveWords. This release comes after their first single and music video, “The Saint,” which marked a bold creative departure for the band.
“Glass” took form after guitarist DJ Temple witnessed Meshuggah live, an experience that deeply influenced the track's creation. Temple describes how the initial riff carried significant weight, setting the tone and structure for the entire song, with every element crafted to enhance its impact.
The track, inspired by Meshuggah and Alluvial, presents interconnected riffs that reflect Without Mercy's unique style. The music builds momentum, featuring a controlled groove that intensifies throughout before culminating in a powerful conclusion. Lyrically, “Glass” delves into themes of perception, using imagery of eyes, mirrors, souls, and translation to explore the distortion between sight and understanding.
Infinite Loss marks Without Mercy's highly anticipated return since their acclaimed 2020 album Seismic. This EP was crafted under intense conditions, with the band relocating across borders to immerse themselves entirely in the creative process. The record, comprising three tracks, was meticulously selected for its thematic depth and musical impact after undergoing rigorous revision and scrutiny.
Thematically, the EP delves into the pressures of modern life, portraying a sense of being pursued by various challenges like economic burdens, identity crises, and the struggle for survival. Musically, the album mirrors this tension through weighty riffs, deliberate rhythms, and controlled aggression that captivates listeners.
DJ Temple highlights the intense collaborative effort that went into creating the EP, emphasizing the band's commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing discomfort to produce music that resonates authentically. The artwork, a collaboration with Diego Gedoz de Souza, visually encapsulates the emotional essence of the EP, portraying a desolate forest with a profound void symbolizing inevitability and loss.
The EP features tracks like “Infinite Loss,” “The Saint,” and “Glass,” showcasing Without Mercy's lineup of Alex Friis on vocals, DJ Temple on guitars, Ryan Loewen on bass, and Matt Helie on drums. The band's dedication to pushing creative boundaries and exploring profound themes shines through in their latest offering, promising a compelling musical journey for listeners.