Whilst fairly fresh to the NZ music scene (original formation in 2019), South Island quartet No Life are here to leave a pummeling imprint on 2022 and beyond with the release of their debut EP. Radical Thoughts delivers three massive tracks of progressive metalcore with embellishments of modern nu metal and industrial.
The production is flawless, every instrument so crisp and clear and pounding kick drum to the skull. The three compositions are so musically intricate and showcase a wide variety of influences and elements packaged into a unique sound that is their own. First track and recent single Backchat begins with lots of groove, a mere tease, before the onslaught of double kick extremity and breakdowns with palm muted dirty down strokes. Every member so precisely in sync with each other, creating a whirlwind landscape for vocalist Connor to navigate his lyrical rampage.
Second track Fractures starts with this rad hip hop style sample before it launches into mathcore heaviness. The song has moments that remind me of After The Burial, from nasty breakdowns and slick lead guitars to moments of robotic calm. Each section so well-crafted and intricately precise. The rhythm section so intact but flourishing.
Third and final track East of None has some really unique and original guitar parts, if Tom Morello got down on the metalcore vibe he would feel it too. A discordant machine that carries the path for vocalist Connor to deliver another brutal array of guttrerals, deathcore growls and screams, with perhaps hints of early Northlane and Stray from the Path, there is an urgency with the vocals, a passionate force. The songs are so relentless in attack with powerful messages striking through.
A band to watch closely, to discover and watch as they make their mark on the heavy music scene worldwide.
Emerging from the Hell-hole of the Pacific, No Life is an emotional barrage of soul defining lyrics and aggressive breakdowns that will leave you wanting more. From themes touching upon childhood trauma, loss, addiction and moments of uncontrollable violence. No Life's style of modern Metalcore is here to captivate the world and leave a taste of relentlessness in the listeners mouth.
Photo Credit: Nathan Reynolds