For The Broken

Fredericksburg, Virgina’s For The Broken have released a stellar debut EP, Aurora. The hardcore quintent — a combination of chugs, melody, and the occassional atmospheric keys or hammered dulcimer — start the EP strong with “Borealis.” It begins with the forboding metalcore growl, haunting over some beautiful and simple keys. It then embraces melody (on a surprisingly catchy hook that could easily be on pop radio) only to punch pop in the face as they grind into a breakdown.

The EP doesn’t let up, weaving wonderfully timed guitar chug progressions into their melodic fabric. The hardcore moments of the record help to break up the singing; the biggest complaint of the record could be that the songs are too sectioned off.

The production helps, too. Clever effects and perfected stops and silences make the record sound incredibly professional.

If this were a full LP and their future songs are anywhere in Aurora’s ballpark, it would easily bump this rating up even more. If you only have time for one track, check out “Temptation.”

About the Author

David Stagg

David Stagg is the Owner and Editor of HM Magazine. He enjoys horror movies, minimalism, and Brighton and Hove Albion football.

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