For anyone who holds thrash or hardcore dear to their heart, this notable EP will make you sit up and take notice, before kicking your chair out of the way and diving into the nearest pit.
By Martin Elliott
(Image: © ) Sidewinder
Formed in 2023, Leeds crossover merchants Sidewinder bring the fury to 2025 with their new EP, “March of the Eternal Heretic”.
Opening proceedings with a riff that wouldn’t be out of place on a latter-day Kreator record, first track and lead single “Two Zero One” sets out the stall for the EP in fine fashion. The intro serves to build anticipation and grab attention, before the body of the song erupts in a flurry of punishing riffs. Those seeking tried and true thrash goodness won’t be disappointed as the song brings the intense playing, gang vocals and driving drums beloved of the genre. At this point in the EP the strongest link to the band’s hardcore influences lie in vocalist Damo’s commanding bark, but the energy and intensity of both thrash and hardcore are well in evidence as this opening track leaves you ready and waiting for what’s to come next.
A lone guitar kicks off the title track before a whammy bar divebomb and insistent kick drum usher the track in, and there’s the briefest of pauses before the storm breaks on this relentless track. Unremitting energy is on hand, only slowing down for a couple of chords to give the ensuing solo space to breathe before the attack continues. Featuring a guest vocal from Christopher Barling of London thrashers Inhuman Nature, the song showcases a step up in the hardcore-derived energy that only continues with the following track.
“From Beneath They Rise” shows Sidewinder’s ability to consistently explore the bounds of their style. The pace here remains unrepentantly crushing, custom built to keep those circle pits spinning. The intensity is only reinvigorated when a quick interlude finds Finch’s rumbling bass standing alone, before the rest of the band pile back in. The ensuing lead guitar section is a highlight, emphasising the high standard of playing that guitarists Ginner and Jonesy display throughout. Almost unexpectedly, a drawn out dive bomb signals the emergence of a slower riff, replete with low growls. While the EP is sure to satisfy the mosh cravings of any number of pit denizens, this section will also be enough to grab those last few holdout headbangers at the bar.
Building throughout the EP’s runtime, the band’s hardcore tendencies are ramped up to the max on the EP closer, “Ashes of Reality”. The pummelling assault provided by drummer Gaz ensure that any listeners remaining on the fence are swiftly beaten into submission. A frenetic solo leads into a mid paced riff ensuring that every ounce of energy can be expended in joyful moshing.
With their capacity to combine elements of thrash and hardcore into a seamless, cohesive and varied whole, Sidewinder put their impressive strengths to the fore on this release. For anyone who holds thrash or hardcore dear to their heart, this notable EP will make you sit up and take notice, before kicking your chair out of the way and diving into the nearest pit.
Sidewinder's 'March of the Eternal Heretic' is set for release on February 7th on all streaming platforms.
Add comment
Comments