UK band DAYSHIFTER was formed back in 2015, although it appears that they really didn’t start to get going until earlier this year. “Hopeful // Regretful” is their debut EP, and is set to be released towards the end of July 2017.
I see that the band describes themselves as a melodic hardcore band. Which, I guess, to some extent is correct, although I do hear a bit more to their music than just hardcore. In fact, on many of the compositions at hand here I’d say that the main hardcore aspect of their music is the lead vocals: Hard, shouted and aggressive. Some staccato, hard and firm riffs also adds a hardcore sheen, although it’s only on the concluding title track I’d say these have been given a truly dominant role.
Otherwise bouncy, playful hard and heavy riffs somewhat similar in nature to the kind I at times hear in bands described as djent is a frequent aspect of the proceedings, as are various kinds of electronic sounds and occasionally also keyboards. The drum patters appears to me to be rather more sophisticated than what most hardcore bands tend to utilize, and on top light toned, ethereal textures adds a gentler, contrasting texture in a manner that does make the words post-rock appear in my mind.
When that is said, this is also intense music and loud music. Much more than what my description might indicate: It would appear that the band have actively sought to create a loud, monumental soundscape here, to the point of being and feeling overpowering in scope and stature. Something of a Mount Everest experience, you do feel like a mountain have dropped on your head at times when listening to this EP.
I do find Dayshifter to be a capable band however, despite their thundering and monumental arrangements, and they do make sure that a gentle contrast is a fairly ever-present part of the totality too. This latter detail ensuring that tension is maintained quite nicely.
If a band that blends aspects of hardcore and modern metal and season the brew with a delicate touch of post-rock to create a massive yet melodic sound strikes you as an interesting blend, Dayshifter and their debut EP “Hopeful // Regretful” will most likely be a production that warrants a check.
My rating: 77/100
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Track list:
Of Ghosts, Seasons, In Despair, Hell’s in Your Head, Interlude, Hopeful // Regretful
