Wildheart Make A Powerful Statement with 'Death Is All That's Left'

Constantly proving to be one of the most refreshing and thought-provoking bands in the Australian scene, Wildheart are no strangers to advocacy. 'Death Is All That's Left' is a powerful statement and it is one that the Meanjin/Brisbane band has proclaimed in both the title and lyrics of their first single release of the year.With a track record that shows years of passionately calling for open conversation and action surrounding mental health, social injustice, and discrimination, the band has always worn their hearts on their sleeve. Their latest offering is no different.

Saturated with frustration, 'Death Is All That's Left' addresses how First Nations voices have continued to not be heard or listened to, an issue especially amplified after the no vote. Frontman and proud Yugambeh man, Axel Best, explains that:

“as long as this continues to be an issue, we’re going to keep addressing it. We want to use our platform to discuss issues that matter – someone’s got to do it”.

Using his lyrics to call out leaders who don’t utilise their position to help those in need, stating:

“if you’re in a position to help others, you should be using your position and power to do so. People have a right to education, to equal opportunities, to feel safe”.

'Death Is All That's Left' from the start is fast and furious. Hitting you with a sonic representation of pent-up frustration and opening riffs that give you that classic metalcore goodness. Best's lyrics are amplified by the heaviness of the rhythm section, as subtle guitar licks pepper in. The chorus is catchy, and the vocals are clean- driving home the important message of the song. It never lulls. It never waivers.

As moving as the track is, accompanied by the music video, it hits even harder. Using grim imagery of cemeteries, churches, and a lone figure running fearfully, the metaphor is strong throughout. Highlighting the lack of safety in the community and personifying rising death toll of First Nations people. The elements of the video, combined with emotive lyrics and honestly crafted instrumentation- it all comes together as one of Wildheart's most formidable releases yet.

Words by Kayla Hamilton@kaylazomboid

You can stream 'Death Is All That's Left' Here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rzm77qCVOrY