Out Now
Via XMusic
Words by: Kyra Jade
I found myself with some rare ‘down time’ up my sleeve and being someone who can’t sit too long with idle hands, snapping a tendon in my ankle is the worst case scenario. I thought I could at least put my brain to good use and check out XCalibre’s new album ALBUM X that was patiently waiting in my Gmail for me. I went in blind on this one, I haven’t had the pleasure of listening to XCalibre before and this for me is always the most exciting part when hitting play. What’s it going to be? Metal, thrash, punk, hardcore? Who cares, I’m in.
From the second track one Gone begins to play my mind is scrambling to place what I’m listening to and what journey I’m about to go on. It starts off with a soft intro’ with almost nu-metal vocals, only a little bit spicier. Almost immediately it opens up into this face paced song, aptly slowing down as it builds to the chorus and when it hits… the sound is huge. Gone has just become a good candidate for my next ear worm. The clean vocals are clear as day and confident. I’m nodding my head along appreciating that I’m in good company here with XCalibre.
What’s next?
Track two No Sensei invites you in with an airy vibe/ semi-prog riff. Vocals come in gently with a storyteller tone. The pre-chorus is hard, which I’m now releasing is potentially the chorus… It’s an interesting arrangement and is offering up some multi-genre goodness.
Scars will offer you a moment to slow down and enjoy this song that I can only assume was perfectly, and intentionally, placed right here to reel us in and listen to its’ message. This song feels like it’s sung right off the pages of someone’s diary and barring all for us to connect with.
Now listen, I’m going to be controversial here and say… I wish the album ended on Superhero. It’s a fucking banger and in my eyes, the perfect anchor tying all the other songs together. I’m not saying dismiss the last track War Games by any stretch, just a reposition perhaps?
I would love to know the story behind the album and gain insight because I’m certain it’s a damn good one and I will happily eat my words, education is key.
What I enjoyed about ALBUM X the most is there is no predictability. Each track presents itself differently and I find myself dying to know what’s going to happen on each track. It’s speaking to my multifaceted music taste and I’m not complaining one bit. I’m not saying each song is genre bending, everything is perfectly married up. XCalibre just has a wonderful way of putting together a song and sharing a story.
Be right back, I’m taking a deep dive into their history. You got yourself a new fan!
Bye for now, legends x
