Emerging from the Austrian region of Vorarlberg, Ending Things brings a visceral, deeply cathartic energy to their self-titled 12″ EP, Ending Things. Comprising members of I Not Dance, The Omission, and Lebrisk, this collective draws from an impressive lineage of hardcore expertise, crafting a raw and refined release. Rooted in the darker corners of hardcore, with elements of melodic and post-hardcore woven throughout, this material delivers an intense and emotionally resonant sonic assault.
From the onset, it is clear that Ending Things are not interested in half-measures. This record plunges the listener into a swirling maelstrom of emotion, fueled by aggressive riffs, pounding rhythms, and vocals that teeter between anguish and fury. The band’s darkened hardcore aesthetic provides a fitting foundation for themes that grapple with despair, catharsis, and the struggle for meaning amid chaos. The intensity is tangible, but it’s not unrelenting chaos. Instead, there’s a deliberate balance at play, with each track ebbing and flowing to maintain a gripping narrative arc. Their capability to oscillate between thunderous aggression and quieter, reflective moments speaks to their mastery of dynamics and composition. The vocal performance is a centerpiece of this material. The screaming and shouting are both feral and precise, conveying a sense of urgency with such finesse. There’s an authenticity that makes every word feel weighty, as though the vocalist is channeling deeply personal experiences into every phrase. These vocals are not merely a conduit for rage, they are nuanced and varied, weaving between guttural screams, shouted refrains, and moments of stark vulnerability. This versatility keeps the listener engaged and underscores the emotional depth of these songs.
The guitar work is another standout element, showcasing an impressive range of textures and tones. From heavy, gritty, and raw riffs that hit with the force of a freight train to more melodic passages that add layers of complexity, the guitarists display a keen sense of dynamics. Each progression feels purposeful, drawing the listener deeper into the album’s dark, immersive world. Memorable hooks and intricate harmonies abound, creating moments of stark beauty despite all the aggression. These melodic elements are seamlessly integrated into the heavier framework, enhancing the EP’s emotional resonance without compromising its ferocity. The basslines provide a crucial counterbalance to the frenetic energy of the guitars and drums. Warm, vividly hearable, and intricately crafted, they add a depth and groove that anchors these songs. Whether driving a track forward with pulsating rhythms or subtly enhancing the harmonic texture, the bass work is a vital component of their sound. Notably, the bass doesn’t merely play a supporting role, it’s given space to shine, adding weight and dimension to the arrangements. This attention to detail elevates everything, highlighting Ending Things’ commitment to assembling a fully realized sonic experience. The percussion drives the relentless energy, with intricate beats, rapid-fire fills, and dynamic shifts that keep the listening apparatus on edge. The drummer’s precision and creativity shine through in every track, delivering a technically impressive and emotionally charged performance. From breakneck double-time beats to slower, atmospheric sections, the percussion adapts to the shifting moods. This versatility is crucial, providing both propulsion and nuance to the sound.
Each element, vocals, guitars, bass, and drums, work harmoniously to create a unified sound. The production amplifies this cohesion, balancing between rawness and clarity that suits their aesthetic perfectly. The mix ensures that every instrument is distinct yet integrated, allowing the listener to appreciate the intricacies of the arrangements without losing the impact. These tracks are arranged in a way that maintains momentum while allowing for moments of contemplation and contrast. This careful structuring ensures that this EP remains engaging from start to finish, with no filler or missteps. While the lyrics are steeped in the personal and the abstract, the themes explored in Ending Things resonate universally. The band grapples with existential questions, personal struggles, and the weight of societal pressures, presenting these ideas through a lens of dark, visceral imagery. There’s a cathartic quality to the music that mirrors the emotional release of confronting these issues head-on. This thematic depth is complemented by the band’s ability to evoke mood and atmosphere through their music. Whether it’s the crushing weight of a downtuned riff or the eerie stillness of a melodic interlude, the soundscape enhances the emotional impact of the lyrics, creating a holistic listening experience. As a debut release, Ending Things is a powerful statement of intent. Their ability to merge the raw intensity of darkened hardcore with melodic and post-hardcore elements results in a familiar and distinct sound. It’s an EP that honors the traditions of its genres while pushing the boundaries, showcasing a level of creativity and craftsmanship that sets Ending Things apart.
Ending Things is an immersive experience that captures the essence of darkened hardcore while offering something unique. With exceptional performances, thoughtful arrangements, and a thematic depth, this EP exemplifies how modern melodic hardcore should sound. It’s a debut that doesn’t just meet expectations, it shatters them, leaving a nearly cathartic impression and setting a high bar for whatever comes next from this promising band. Head to Ending Thing’s Bandcamp page for more information about ordering this gem on 12” vinyl.
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