VOLCANDRA is a Melodic Black Metal band from the USA, formed in 2018. The released a full-length album in 2020, and now return with a new EP titled
“Border World.” The EP contains four tracks.
“Tallon IV” leads off the album. It’s a short, three-minute introductory track, that opens with glittering leads over a bed of heavy bass and drums. When the harsh vocals come in, the song thickens with weight rhythm guitars. This is an interesting blend of a few different genres of Metal.
“Resonance Cascade” opens with a whammy bar dive before the thickened guitars and drums pulverize you. From there, the energetic song blends Black Metal with elements of Thrash Metal, and even Classic Metal, but always with melody in mind. A wonderful guitar solo is also unleashed, while the vocals remain in attack mode.
“Colossi” begins with more nefarious notes and some dark rhythms. The acoustic interlude brings more grey notes with it. What follows is a nice, melodic section with punishing rhythms that if you look just right at, you can see through to the colors that lie beyond.
“Guardian” closes the album. It begins with majestic tones in the main riff and some nifty drum fills. This is a fantastic song from start to finish. Featuring absolutely blistering tones from the instruments and vocals, the bright melodies shine. You might feel just a bit dizzy after listening to this song. I want more. The four songs that were presented on the EP are just amazing. The flawless combination of a few different genres of Metal is definitely out of the ordinary, as well as something unique and not heard before. There is a lot to like here on
“Border World.”Songwriting: 9
Musicianship: 9
Memorability: 9
Production: 9