Tides is the debut release by San Francisco’s melodic metalcore outfit, Swept to Sea. It’s an ABSOLUTE BANGER. Released on the 2nd of December via Eclipse Records, there’s a lot of promise from this band if their first foray is anything to go by. Formed in 2019, Swept to Sea are Ernest Munoz (vocals), Jeno Fox (guitar), Gio Fox (guitar), Gabriel Paulos (drums), and Sean Kameny (bass).
The band sites influence, such as Parkway Drive and As I Lay Dying, with the later really showing through. I’d also add Killswitch Engage to this list.
online pharmacy order clomiphene online best drugstore for you
Even if not cited as a direct influence on the band, there’s a vibe that matches KSE. Honestly, this is such a great first release that I think these guys could hang with that crowd.
The EP starts off with a nice gentle intro track with Reign of Terror and then throws its hat into the ring with the follow-up Crown in Ashes. It’s a good, fun beat with some great head-banging moments thrown in. The track also demonstrates the vocal capacity for Ernest, expertly pulling off heavy and clean vocals.
Hell Called Home follows on, which is a sick chuggy song. I’m really enjoying the clean vocals here, it’s a relief to be able to understand the lyrics! Shards of Your Reflection is the standout track for me, I love the gentle piano introduction and then the subsequent heaviness. The comparison between these two sections serves to accentuate both. Again, some great vocal moments here bordering on black-metal-esque. The unrelenting guitars work so well, presenting a feeling like we’re marching towards a final outcome. An excellent offering from the band.
Unbridled is another well-paced track introducing yet another vocal style, which they pull off to perfection. I love the chanting section, which gave me Parkway Drive Deep Blue vibes. The band are so talented to be able to pull off so many different musical styles – a true talent.
online pharmacy order aciphex online best drugstore for you
Finally, the EP closes out with Tides Will Turn. The drum intro at commencement works well to distinguish this from the other tracks. The guitar abilities of Jeno and Gio are on full display – this is a riff-lovers paradise and is a perfect closer to Tides.
What else can I say? This is a killer first release from Swept to Sea. The quality is well beyond what should be achievable by a band that only formed in 2019. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this release through each listen. Go check it out! 4.5/5 metal roos!
Tracklist:
- Reign of Terror
- Crown in Ashes
- Hell Called Home
- Shards of Your Reflection
- Unbridled
- Tides Will Turn
Swept to Sea: Facebook
Release Year: 2022
Label: Eclipse Records
Category: EP
Country: USA
Reviewed by Phil Bergersen
