30 Sep 2023
STATES - Single/Video Review: Relentless
03 Apr 2021 // A review by [email protected]
Auckland band States have been around the local scene for some time, in various incarnations. Through changes in the band line-up and direction in sound, the band has settled on a roster in which there is vision and optimism to invest deeply in their music and visuals. The result is Relentless, and between the visceral intent of the song and the sheer panache of the video, the outcome is very impactful.
Chris Birch’s drumming is creative and forceful, with flourishes and fills filtering through with optimally timed precision. Birch, of course, forms a formidable rhythm section with Rob Woodman, who’s bass arrangement is tasteful and foundational. Together they create the roots to that huge, modern metal sound as produced by Zorran Mendonsa. Guitarists Nik Dobbin and Reuben Parlane combine to attack the midrange with huge riffs and subtle lead lines, before Dobbin takes the fore with a thoughtfully cultivated guitar solo. This all serves as the groundwork for front man and rapper Scotty Squire to grab the listener’s attention with his resolve; There is a palpable anger and animosity in the performance that is deeply reminiscent of early Blindspott, and also has shades of P.O.D. when considered alongside the deep, modern, melodic rock sound the band co-creates.
The music video, directed by Bahador Borhani of Written By Wolves, accompanies the song with polish and style. With captivating imagery, smoke-filled stages, filtered backgrounds and an energetic but fluid edit, it is truly rewarding on the eye. Any band would be proud to have their music represented visually to this standard.
Though States have been through many formats over the years, the arrival of Relentless signals the beginning of a new era, which is very good news indeed for New Zealand rock and nu metal fans. Throw up the horns and catch this huge track at the next States show.
Auckland band States have been around the local scene for some time, in various incarnations. Through changes in the band line-up and direction in sound, the band has settled on a roster in which there is vision and optimism to invest deeply in their music and visuals. The result is Relentless, and between the visceral intent of the song and the sheer panache of the video, the outcome is very impactful. Chris Birch’s drumming is creative and forceful, with flourishes and fills filtering through with optimally timed precision. Birch, of course, forms a formidable rhythm section with Rob Woodman, who’s bass arrangement is tasteful and foundational. Together they create the roots to that huge, modern metal sound as produced by Zorran Mendonsa. Guitarists Nik Dobbin and Reuben Parlane combine to attack the midrange with huge riffs and subtle lead lines, before Dobbin takes the fore with a thoughtfully cultivated guitar solo. This all serves as the groundwork for front man and rapper Scotty Squire to grab the listener’s attention with his resolve; There is a palpable anger and animosity in the performance that is deeply reminiscent of early Blindspott, and also has shades of P.O.D. when considered alongside the deep, modern, melodic rock sound the band co-creates.
The music video, directed by Bahador Borhani of Written By Wolves, accompanies the song with polish and style. With captivating imagery, smoke-filled stages, filtered backgrounds and an energetic but fluid edit, it is truly rewarding on the eye. Any band would be proud to have their music represented visually to this standard.
Though States have been through many formats over the years, the arrival of Relentless signals the beginning of a new era, which is very good news indeed for New Zealand rock and nu metal fans. Throw up the horns and catch this huge track at the next States show.
Rating:
( 5 / 5 )
About STATES
Releases
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