f a u n s - Surcease (EP Review)

Release Date: May 5th 2023. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: Cassette/DD

Surcease - Tracklisting

1.Fault & Falter

2.Ashen

Members

Jason Meyers - Vocals/Guitar

Joey Cronvich - Guitar

Josh Gates - Bass

Brian DiVincenti - Drums

Review

Surcease is the new EP from Doom/Post-Metallers f a u n s who make crushing blackened sonic devastation with their bleak outlook on modern day life. Powered by the modern day sounds of Doom Metal, Post-Metal and Sludge Metal but with an onslaught of bone-crunching grooves that are inspired by Wolves In The Throne Room, ISIS, YOB and Neurosis. 

The two songs of Surcease are powerfully structured and have an emotional core to them with f a u n s having blending Post-Black theatrics with today’s underground bleak sounds. The instrumental grooves consist mostly of Post-Doom and Post-Metal sensibilities that’s built over by a bleak Black Metal vision which comes mostly through the downbeat sonic soundscapes, gloomy lyrics and the brutal vocals of Jason Meyers.

The EP benefits from a stunning use of Ambient Post-Rock in places which allows f a u n s music to grow organically whilst bringing a sense of realism that’s very hard to ignore especially on the emotionally charged first track Fault & Falter.

The songs also benefit from f a u n s great ability to play sublime grooves and extended progressive Post-Metal melodies despite the depressing and unforgiving nature the record contains. However, f a u n s inject some uplifting moments of Ambient driven Post-Rock/Post-Metal along the way. 

The second track Ashen is my favourite track on the album with f a u n s ability to fuse emotionally charged SONIC based sounds and Post-Black Metal riff wizardry along with their destructive vocals and sublime lyrics. f a u n s come into their own sound with this track and I didn’t want this song or EP to end. 

Another standout element to f a u n s music is their refusal to bow down to their legendary hometown's reputation for Sludge Metal. These guys are from New Orleans and I expected to the band to use that as a creative backbone to power the grooves contained on this release. However, for this EP, the band release music on their own terms and this to me was a great decision and allows them to be judged on their own creative merits.

Surcease is a diverse collection of some of the heaviest and meanest Doom/Post-Metal songs I’ve heard in some time. If you’re in the mood for a harsh and violent audio experience then

 f a u n s are willing to fill that emotional void with this wonderfully produced release.

Words by Steve Howe

Thanks to Carcosa PR for the promo.

Surcease will be available to buy now on Cassette/DD.

Links

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