“Did you get what you wanted?”
Over the years, deathcore has become more accessible through its numerous subgenres that many are more familiar with. It’s ironic considering that the original inspiration for the music (that the masses are so receptive to) gets less love than it deserves. For example, a band like Paleface Swiss utilises clean choruses that are thought to be algorithm-friendly. However, Mauled are going against the (TikTok) grain and continuing to revive the MySpace deathcore era. So, for those who crave the visceral rage and unsettling atmosphere deathcore has to offer, you have come to the right place.
Indianapolis-based five-piece band Mauled pride themselves on returning to the sordid roots of deathcore. Having already left a strong impression with their Self-Titled EP in 2025 (which was well-loved by our resident writer Shane C), Mauled have shown they are ready to make the listener reminiscent of the good old days. Immediately, the listener is welcomed with an unsettling “Intro” that felt intended to intimidate rather than entice. With the use of disturbing ambient layers and a staticky voice track that wouldn’t feel out of place in a torture den, the listener is now acquainted with what’s to come.
“Mouthful of Glass” gives way to a killer guitar opening before prepping the stage for an insane vocal delivery reminiscent of the raw early work of Whitechapel, while striking the perfect balance of low, sludgy guitar tones against a fierce vocal fry. This is a continued theme in the EP, as it begins to contrast the guttural vocals that become more grotesque in nature. Almost begging to be put down as “TheLastThingYouSee” ends on a pig squeal that would make Will Ramos proud, this song reinforces the psychotic theme by ramping up the rhythm with punchier drums and rapid guitar riffs. And just like a reward, the listener is treated to a slowed, chuggy final verse. While each song differs in tempo, there is always a purposefully drawn-out breakdown that guarantees to scratch that carnal itch in the brain.
As filthy as these tracks are, production is clean and harmonious. The tracks, while chaotic in nature, are layered effectively; nothing is overpowering in spite of every track being so forceful. Without even listening to the lyrics, the overarching theme is made clear that “they wrote this record with nothing but hate in their hearts”, as stated by the vocalist Abe Kirkpatrick. While the lyrics may be on the nose, that cutthroat essence is right where it needs to be. You can’t have a cathartic track without telling a few home truths, right? “Fucking die” gets the point across where it needs to.
In summary, this isn’t an EP for the casual listener. It leans into the aspects of the genre that are hard-hitting and ruthless. In a world where everything is being toned down, it’s a brutal and stark reminder that sometimes the pristine polish isn’t always needed in deathcore. Mauled have proven they are unwilling to compromise on their razor-sharp concept. Their use of unabating breakdowns is sure to push them to the masses and hopefully grab their attention.
7/10
When Your Eyes Are Shut independently releases on March 12th through all streaming platforms.