“I know it makes you feel less alone to make a house a home.“
If you mixed gothic nineties vampire movie soundtrack with metal, you’d get the Sorry about the plague EP. Strong guitar elements guide you through the delicate story telling from Mollie Clack’s siren-like vocals. Not forgetting the true heavy-metal screams by Sean Windle piercing through some of these tracks like the perfect reminder of the versatility that Knife Bride are capable of. This band nails the cinematic, fantasy instrumentals with a blend of soothing and haunting vocals.
The Brighton-based quartet have already made a name for themselves, appearing at Download, Burn It Down and The Great Escape Festival, while appearing alongside the likes of Svalbard, Ithaca and Vukovi on tour. Both Mollie Clack and Sean Windle share the vocal role, providing both the gentler and harsher combination that often works so well. Sean Milsopp is in charge of the drums and the distinct yet unique use of the synth, while Craig Glynn is on the bass. The band takes its inspiration from bands like Spiritbox and Karnivool who are two defining bands in the metal scene.
Structurally, the band has packed these tracks with cinematic intros, eerie vocals that slow to a whisper and heavy breakdowns that really bring the songs together. Each song blends into the next seamlessly while still holding a unique spot with its own qualities. It really feels like they have used the full extent of their knowledge and skills to compile each track with layered instrumentals with a heavy riff focus, melodic yet raw vocals, distortion and breakdowns that leave a real impression. The inclusion of repeated lyrics and backing vocals that echo means there’s no room for misunderstanding both the meaning of the music but also of the band itself. Sorry about the plague is layered with themes and specific, the production reflects that through the emotion-heavy drops and chilling build-ups its clear that a story is being told. Defining elements include the dark tone of the guitar and the heavy riffs that compliment the vocals, giving the lyrics the necessary emphasis and impact.
“Alone at the altar” is an impressive introduction to a piece of work with a prominent guitar presence, vivid imagery and an alluring contrast between the softer feminine vocals and the harsh masculine screams in the breakdown. It’s a perfect example of modern bands developing the aspect of emo music that people carry with them, with angsty lyrics exploring desire, lovesickness and the toxicity of it all. There is very clear, raw emotions displayed through the mention of plagues and paradise throughout the song. A key point though remains the theme of religion, suggested by the mention of an altar, and enforced by the title of the second track, “Crucify”. This song has a punkier feel to the vocals and a bold personality within the track list, coming straight in with the heavy riffs and screams. The song also features more whispering that builds into a break-down, perfectly encapsulating the progression of the chaotic story. Said story character is represented as rather impulsive and unstable, especially through the lyrics, “I’m in the business of destroying everything” and “Am I that insane?” which has a powerful presence. The title obviously relates to a punishment linked in the Bible, retaining the religious connections. Another notable song is “Lillies” which makes for a change compared to the previous tracks. A much slower, moodier presence with a more noticeable synth-based sound and a focus on the cinematic intro, feeling akint o the aforementioned VUKOVI. Alongside this, an interesting moment where the vocals slow down to a talking sort of pace which leaves listeners hooked onto every word.
Knife Bride have perfected the art of story telling through genuinely good, exciting and new music, they’ve found their distinct sound while remaining able to surprise fans with the sheer extent of their skill. The themes run clearly through the very beginning of their work, only becoming more defined and impactful as time goes on, an aesthetically pleasing flow between one piece of work to the next. There’s a lot of representation of femininity and conflict which is sometimes sparse in this genre and scene of music. Knife Bride, and specifically Sorry about the plague is perfect for fans of Make them Suffer and Spiritbox for their distinct ability to capture complex emotions and channel them into a powerful yet cathartic sound.
8/10
Sorry about the plague is out this coming Friday, April 24th, via independent release.