LABEL: Broken Hive
RELEASE DATE: November 15th 2013
OVERALL RATING: 7.5 – Impressive
STANDOUT TRACK: “Valhalla”
IN A SENTENCE: Endless Heights have peeled back the layers of pure hardcore to reveal a notable knack for melodic emo grunge in what is their best release yet.
Listen HERE
In recent years Sydney’s Endless Heights’ sound has shifted from straight up hardcore, unraveling their own craft of melodic, rhythm driven tracks. Their blend of emo punk/hardcore peaks in the form of debut full length New Bloom. Injected into Australia’s punk scene late last year, New Bloom has refreshingly filled the void amongst a flood of local monotonous hardcore.
Vocalist Joel Martorana discusses aiming to make the most of time and existence on "Honest Life". Endless Heights have succeeded in doing this, clearly writing the music they want to try, hear and share. Highlight of the 10 tracks, "Valhalla" combines the very best of Endless Heights to date: catchy hooks, solid grunge and genuine, aspiring lyrics, “Try to keep my wings nailed to the ground / Valhalla / Safe and sound / I’m heaven bound.” The sludgy vocal style in this song is at times reminiscent of Andrew Fisher (Basement) who fits into the emo/grunge genre with ease.
The solemn predominantly instrumental "Coral Castle" contrasts beautifully with heartening "Matador", highlighting Endless Heights’ ability to write both brilliant slow and fast paced songs.
Infectious "Mosaic" is certain to convert effectively in a live setting, as Martorana repeats, “We all miss out when you don't stand in your shoes / I need you to be you / Which life will you choose?" The catchiest track on the record is reminiscent of old The Story So Far, particularly in this repetitive section. Watch the video here.
Endless Heights’ growth, passion and guts is admirable. It no doubt takes confidence to push the boundaries that those in the community have drearily halted at. The youthful east coasters have taken risks that have worked in their favour. Endless Heights have raised the bar for their Australian peers to look above at, enlisting them as one of Australia’s most exciting bands.
TRACK BY TRACK RATING BREAKDOWN:
The New Bloom: 8.0
Honest Life: 8.0
Valhalla: 9.0
Sanctum: 7.0
Coral Castle: 7.5
Matador: 8.0
Mosaic: 8.5
House Of Cards: 7.0
Son Of Thunder: 7.0
Love Will Keep Me Whole: 8.0
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Hailey Hill is our Wonder from Down Under. Since graduating from Deakin University with a degree in Journalism and Public Relations, she spends her time listening to punk/emo-esque music and hangs out with dogs.
