Following on from the Old Chapel Demos released by Cryptic Shift earlier this, comes their 'Old Chapel EP'. Re-recordings of their original tracks, doing them the justice they deserve. The much more powerful mix and master, along with the final welcome addition of vocals, make the EP a great improvement on the previously released demos.
Returing to the old haunt of Czar Street Studios in Leeds, the band have gone full out this time to give the tracks the justice they deserve. A number of changes have been made since the first inception of the demos earlier in the year, including the introduction of Hokumu Blitzkrieg on bass. The change is very prevelant, with Hokumus style being very different to their previous bassists sound. And for me it is certainly a welcome addition to the band, with his heavier focus on rythmn helping to guide and drive the songs in all the places they need. Although Oli Griffiths technical ability and great melodic bass playing was something that set the band apart, it often felt a bit too out of place among the songs. And with the music often being more tipped towards the rythmn end, a straight forward powerful and driving approach is often best.
The second major change to the EP tracks over the demos are the premier of vocals. And Rob Castles great display here certainly help bring the songs together whole. The icing on the cake if you would like! Vocals are certainly something that are central to keeping the tracks moving forward, and a great display of aggressive vocal styles keep the variety content high.
First track I got to hear, 'Mass Gathering' kicks straight in with a Thrash-esue catchy riff, that soon develops into a heavy driving rythmn to open the track. With groove elements coming prevelant in the verse, the song reaches a nice balance without leaning too heavy one way. Especially as the leads kick in after the chorus, and the prevelance of bass is shown once again with lead bass parts playing off with the guitar. A lesson in something a lot of bands could do with - turn your bassist up! As the track reaches it's instrumental section the tempo's change again keeps the variation high, and leads to an incredibly easy to distinguish track. Not monotonizing a single riff in it, instead developing on them.
Second track 'Leviathan Walk' is one certainly more Groove heavy, and a strike between classic Pantera and modern Lamb Of God. The chuggy riffs are in abundance, but helped out by again switching it up to higher sections to stop the sound from becoming too samey. The vocals in particular can be bordered upon Phil Anselmo territory, with the deep power to the uncontrolled whails, and gritty screams. It feels like the song sometimes plays upon it's main riff a bit too much, with it introducing the many different changes in the song, but it's something that certainly helps keep the music stuck in your memory as well.
Overall, from what I've heard, the EP is a massive upgrade from the previously released demos. The clarity and power it delivers notchs it far above, and gives the music and songwriting a platorm it really deserves. I can't wait to hear the rest later this year, and getting to see them live. To me the improvements on the EP have garnished a close to new found love for a band I feel have a lot of potential, and I feel further releases can truly be excellent . Maybe not the most original of sound, but a sound that is incredible none the less.
The release of the EP is yet to be announced, but expect it before the well anticipated Thrashoholic Fest. So everyone going best get to the front for these guys, and get a copy if you like what you hear. 'Mass Gathering is also going to be the recipient of the bands first music video, recorded by Andy Horry of Slaughter Throne.
Any fans in Leeds, Manchester or Liverpool may also be in for a treat as the band will be doing a short three date tour this Winter. Alongside Liverpudlian Thrashers Exiled and my own band Viocide. Dates are yet to be announced, but be sure Napalm will be the first to yell it at you when they are!
Full details on the EP will be announced as Cryptic Shift themselves let us know, and we look forward to hearing more! Great music, great guys. Go check them out!
All music by Cryptic Shift
Mixed by Cryptic Shift and David Whitaker
Recorded at Czar Street Studios
And set to be released by MAS Records
Cryptic Shift is:
Rob Castle - Vocals
Xander Bradley - Guitars
Ryan Sheperson - Drums
Hokumu Blitzkreig - Bass
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