In Fear seem like the new kids on the block, but they’ve been grafting for some time. And their new album, “All Is. All Shall Be.”, is a testament to the work they’ve been putting in behind the scenes.
After a too-muted intro track, In Fear tears through the sound barrier with the behemoth opener, All Is.
Lovers and loathers of these Bristolians are going to be made or broken with this heroic track, full of face-melting riffs, Gandalf quotes (“I have no memory of this place”) and a growl that’ll feel right at home in pits – both mosh and stomach.
The soaring vocals emanating throughout the song’s chorus are perhaps the defining feature of the band. Connecting In Fear and Deftones is an easy comparison to make, but it’s a fair one.
Their strobe-like methodical beatdowns are a testament to just how creative the five-piece can get with their art. In essence, this is hardcore dance music. And, like the best dance tracks from throughout history, each track has a demanding payoff that would be at home in any setlist, any venue, anywhere.
And their astronomically catchy riffs are peppered throughout the album – The Blinding White’s opening; Trace My Skin’s relentless triplets; Narrow Gate’s bone-breaking breakdown.
That’s perhaps the biggest strength of “All Is. All Shall Be”: its versatility. Effervescent and completely gripping, no one could be criticised for pointing out similarities and inflexions akin to A Day To Remember, Architects, or (sometimes?) Asking Alexandria across the 14-track album.
But the truest creativity comes from the band in their most memorable hits. Purest Fire is an absolute killer. The chorus’ screeching vocals and stripped-back verses are a devastating testament to how intricate In Fear can be.
On the flip side, Rest demonstrates the band is mature enough to create softer, ambient sounds within their music that utilise layered story-telling techniques both musically and lyrically. This track, in particular, smacks of Rolo Tomassi’s latest album; a real triumph.
The band do seem to have gone a little heavy on the ambience in other places, however.
Two tracks on the 14-song album (Shoreline, Remember Me) are instrumental, and – while they’re beautifully composed – they feel a little like gap-fillers to me.
Likewise, some songs (Cessation, All Shall Be) have long intro portions that take too long to lead into the real meat of the music.
This is, somewhat of a good thing though. I want more from In Fear. I don’t want to wait around for the dust to settle before their stunning, explosive songs finally kick in.
In Fear’s debut album “All Is. All Shall Be.” is a gorgeous demonstration of the next generation of British metal. Their creativity bleeds as much as their lyrics, and I am counting the seconds until I can see them live. Here’s hoping their performances are as well-built as their record.
In Fear – All Is. All Shall Be. is out now.
