Independent
Out Now
Words by Lewd Scoff
Last week saw the release of Melbourne’s THE MOTION BELOW’s new E.P ‘Breakthrough.
Released independently, the six tracks on offer have a noticeably more stripped back and focus on vocals approach compared to previous releases up to and including 2020’s Dead Ends single.
The overall feel of the album is comparable to the way Australian filmmakers film cars compared to the way Americans do. Sure, the concept is the same, but Aussies like George Miller can showcase both the finesse and grandeur whilst still making sure the rawness and real-life grit is still on display. This is metalcore, but presented in a way that pushes melodic integrity and constant flow of energy. Everything is in its right place and complements either what comes before or after it musically. All that means is, it’s raw but polished. Which, for this style of music, is essential.
Having said all that, let’s break down the tracks.
What Doesn’t Kill You kicks off the drama with an indie-vibed intro that quickly transforms into modern sounding prog that’s reminiscent of Caligula’s Horse. The chorus has that multi-vocal focus mentioned in this review’s introduction and slams subsequently.
Who I Am is a well-constructed modern rock track that is a slow burner. The more I hear this track, the more the words resonate. The track’s lyrics are the strongest example of the overall lyrical intent and message of the E.P. “I’m bitter, but I’ll turn away from everything that dragged me down”. The song explores the past through lessons learned, admitting where previous actions and mistakes, while painful to look back on, can also be the motivators that make a person who they are in the present, and become part of the journey. Love the four part harmony vocal finish. Quality.
Fade has that obligatory Linkin Park without Mike feel that can ruin a metalcore album, but the lads quickly make the song their own in the pre-chorus, followed by another slapping chorus.
No Escape is by far the E.P highlight for me. What a fantastic track from start to finish. Heaps of space, vocal personality, and dripping in energetic angst, this one’s going straight to the pool room (my heavy classics playlist on YouTube music). Extra point for the last line, “you’re such a fucking cunt”. GOLD.
It’s All The Same was the lead single, and it makes sense why. Easily the most accessible track on Breakthrough, it has the same strong indie vibes that E.P opener What Doesn’t Kill You has and is catchy as hell. Was humming this after the first play-through.
Hear Me rounds out proceedings with more of the same, but with six tracks, that’s kind of what’s needed. Establish a sound, explore its parameters, then drive the point home, letting the listener focus on the message in the lyrics. Lead vocals are pushed to the front of the mix to push this concept to the limit. Short and sweet, when this song finishes, you’ll be reaching for the replay button.
6 on 5 because extra point given for golden lyric.
