Album/EP

Harroway - I Don't Want To Be Here Anymore (EP Review)

Walladmin

Heavy Metal Wordsmith

Apr 23, 2023

7 min read

Harroway - I Don't Want To Be Here Anymore
Released: April 28th, 2023

Line-Up:

Matt Banks // Vocals
Anthony Carnell // Guitar
Jordan Sheriff // Bass
Jack Palmer // Drums

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Since the release of their debut single in 2019, this Sydney-based metalcore act have been making serious noise that has been impossible for us to ignore, not that we would ever want to anyway. Now that the group have emerged from the studio with the hopes that a fresh EP will allow them to continue on their path of an upwards trajectory, it's time for us to sit back and enjoy the fruits of their labour. So, let's dig in!

Opening track 'Origin' kicks things off with a synth-based introduction before vocalist Matt Banks screams "I am your god" on top of layered guitar riffs that manage to be the driving force that brings this piece to life. Banks shows off his vocal abilities in this piece as he ranges from hard-hitting unclean vocals to graceful clean vocals in a style that is ever so similar to the work of Marcus Bridge from Northlane. Drummer Jack Palmer slots in with his drumming in a style that is not overbearing, the ebb and flow between instrumentalists is just right, creating an easy listening experience. Next up is 'Parasite' which offers another synth-based introduction, beefy guitar chugs are soon thrown into the mix and the strong influences from Australian bands such as Alpha Wolf and Diamond Construct become abundantly clear. Palmer takes the opportunity to shine in the limelight in this offering as he smashes through blast beats and double-kicks in perfect execution. The melodic chorus doesn't last long, as we are taken into a breakdown that'll definitely leave my neck feeling sore tomorrow morning.

https://youtu.be/3WZYAQ4-1yc

The latest single 'Burn It All' begins with a tasty guitar riff that steps away from the mosh-inducing guitar chugs that we are used to. Hauntingly delicate clean vocals are introduced and the lyrical content points toward a struggle with self and identity, which we can relate to on some level. The soaring clean vocals throughout the chorus are an absolute delight and are something that will definitely be stuck in my head for days to come. Despite being a significantly slower-paced song than those before it, we are still left with a no holds barred breakdown that is a mosher's wet dream. This track is definitely an EP highlight for me!

Dropping the guitar tunings low once again, 'Impulse' reintroduces the band's synth influences but this time they are more subtle. The intricate details in the guitar work as they shift between the chorus and the verses catch my attention instantly. The pre-breakdown call of "Always good but never good enough" hold me on the edge of my seat as I listen closely to the thumping instrumentals that follow.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2vftFxUPGg

The final track, 'Once More' is a whopping five minutes and fifty-four seconds long, but don't let that scare you off. The mellow introduction doesn't deter Banks from letting his harsh vocals rip. The introduction of different instruments, such as violins gives off a theatrical feel, which is more than welcomed. The tempo pace shifts constantly, making it hard to predict what is to come, yet I find that I'm constantly pleased with what is delivered. Ranging from fast, aggressive sections to slow and uplifting parts, this track has it all.

It's no surprise that everyone has their eye on Harroway, including Wall of Sound boss man Browny. Their reputation as one of Sydney's strongest up-and-coming metalcore acts proceeds them and if this EP doesn't solidify that fact, I don't know what will. My only critique is the group's constant use of synthesisers, which can at times overshadow the natural talent of the instrumentalists, but with more releases, they'll hone in on that sound and comeback stronger.