“Keep your hooks in me, never set me free.”
Metalcore as a genre has always come across as slightly controversial in the metal scene. Whether that be those who disagree with the compound word containing metal, or casual enjoyers that like to sprinkle it into a gym playlist. Regardless of where the consumer sits on this scale, 2026 appears to be a great year for the genre. With bands such as Sylosis dropping a “riff-fuled” album as noted in our review of The New Flesh and The Plot in You announcing that their Volume Series is set to conclude on July 10th. Wage War are eager to join the fray with their upcoming EP, It Calls Me By Name. Creating a picturesque image of a filthy swamp by returning to a style they make sound effortless, Wage War kick-starts their sound by reviving the style that was well-loved in Manic. Many will be thankful that it packs more of a punch and is more cohesive in comparison to Stigma. As a standalone EP, it promises to keep the listener engaged, and hopefully forgive them for their 2024 album.
The earthy theming of the album gave it an interesting level of character, creating an unusual backdrop accompanied by reptilian soundbites. Drawing on low guttural vocals to set the scene of mother nature as the tone becomes animalistic with layers of fluttery rain and croaky frogs. Laying the groundwork in “Song of the Swamp” for the first track of five. Continuing the heavier theming into “4×4” with thick guitar riffs before shifting to track three, “Blindfold”. As it begins to feel like pacing whiplash, a chuggy breakdown makes an appearance. Each track follows a similar pattern with regard to the melody, driven by guitar riffs and emotive vocal delivery.
Despite the use of bestial details, the production is clean and the mixes well-balanced. Where the drums felt punchy, the guitars were heavy in the thick of the mix, making all instruments feel tight and intentional. It focuses on the groove rather than the buildup to the breakdowns. Nonetheless, it wouldn’t be a modern metalcore EP without a few trap beats mixed alongside some eerie synthesisers. Especially in “Blindfold” where the mood followed a more lovesick theming by layering belted vocals with thick gutturals. Keeping the synths soft and slow to start before bounding into an immediate catharsis of a verse.
It was disappointing that Wage War didn’t commit to an immersive environment throughout the EP. While acknowledging that it takes work to maintain the wilderness details without overpowering the tracks, it would have reinforced the expectation set by “Song of the Swamp”, as well as the alligator motifs that are heavily present in their marketing. Leaving a sense of disconnect to the introductory song as opposed to the complete set. However, it did serve to establish a heavy tone from the get-go. Wage War has made something that their listeners have already heard before, but they have done it well. At least they are returning to what they are good at. While they could have utilised more unique aspects of the EP, such as centring on the wildlife world building, it was still an enjoyable set of songs.
7/10
IT CALLS ME BY NAME releases April 17th via Fearless Records, and you can pre-save it here.