7 Oct 2024
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Cian - EP Review: All New Ways Of Life

22 Mar 2024 // A review by Peter K Malthus

All New Ways Of Life is the introductory offering from Wellington-based Hardcore Metal outfit, Cian. Connor Matthew (Guitar, Vocals), Navah Chapman (Guitar), Dylan Jonkers (Bass, Vocals) and Zed Ramsay (Drums) have delivered four raging slabs of blistering-hot Metal on this EP and are hungry to take over the world with their punishing, riff-laden sound.

First up in this aural assault is the title track, lyrically based in looking at life through the lens of anxiety... only to overcome, triumph, and start anew. A brief guitar intro leads into a fast-paced gut-punch of a song, frequently jarringly in-your-face, but also including moments of strong melodic understanding. A very powerful message of self-belief. Reveries is the first song that Cian wrote collectively, and again has a worthy message delivered with gut-wrenching emotion. It's a metaphorical journey of finding the dead body of someone known and loved, only to realize that the person might still be alive, had feelings been spoken out instead of kept private. To quote the band, regarding this song, "There are many things stopping us from showing kindness. Simply, forget it all. Show love to that person who needs it". Indeed. The vocals are paired with a crushing, chugging backing that shows off the deft prowess of Cian's musicianship. 

The third track is titled Thoughts Of Loneliness, lyrically comparing that feeling to being frozen inside, and musically an intense track. The discomfort of loneliness, depression, anxiety, and all of their despicable bedfellows is ably captured in moments of raging fury, and of screaming heartache, leaving the listener in no doubt that the writer has experienced these emotions to their utmost depth.

Never Settle rounds things off, being a plea to the entirety of the human race to work actively together to save our environment and planet. The despair at seeing a world potentially on its last legs is perfectly captured and portrayed, right down to the slowing of the end riff, as if to demonstrate a world ceasing to spin...then ceasing to exist. "Never Settle" could also be the band's motto, having declared that they will never settle until they've achieved their goals.

Look out, world. Cian are coming for you, and they aren't accepting excuses. I'd jolly well pull my socks up if I were you. We only get one planet, and Cian are set to make sure it's well tended to... under their domination, of course. 


 

About Cian

Cian, from Wellington, New Zealand, deliver an onslaught of Metalcore brilliance. With members Connor Matthew (Guitars, Vocals), Navah Chapman (Guitars), Dylan Jonkers (Bass, Vocals), and Zed Ramsay (Drums, Vocals), these four have forged a path marked by heavy, powerful riffs, intricate songwriting, and an electrifying stage presence.

At the core of Cian's music is the compositions filled with complexity and aggression. Cian's music is an experience defined by the impact of their songwriting and thought-provoking lyrics. Their live performances are a testament to their energetic musicianship, captivating audiences by giving their all every time. Cian stands tall, pushing boundaries with every beat and riff. With heavy hearts and a commitment to their craft, Cian is set to leave a mark on the global metal scene.


Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Cian

Releases

All New Ways of Life
Year: 2024
Type: EP

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