Leeds hardcore band, Higher Power, have had a lot of buzz behind them recently, especially following the high profile opening slot on the recent Every Time I Die/Comeback Kid tour. Their high energy set and solid metallic hardcore songs marked the out as one’s to watch. The question here is whether their debut album, Soul Structure stands up to the bar set by their live show.
The first thing that stands out about Soul Structure is the vocal approach. It’s whiny and brattish, which I found a tad off putting at first. However, by my second of third listen something clicked. The vocal approach is very similar to Mike Muir of Suicidal Tendencies when he sings. Once this clicked, I started to enjoy the album a lot more. I must also say that there aren’t enough hooks in the vocal lines, few of the songs remain in the memory like Send Me Your Money, for example, does. The exception on Soul Structure being Between Concrete and Sky.
The production on this album is not great. The phasing applied to the guitar sound robs them of all their weight. This leaves the sound of the band feeling thin and empty. The drums and vocals dominate and leave the riffing quite far in the background. While lo-fi production has always been a part of the history of hardcore. It does feel a tad harsh to criticise this band for having a rough production on their debut. However, that doesn’t mean the criticism isn’t valid. Since this is a debut from hardcore band I don’t think it weighs so heavily against the band as it would an established metal band, for example.
This is a shame because the riffing on this album is truly excellent. Most of the riffs are ripped straight out of the thrash metal rule book. It’s glorious. Whether it’s the high tempo opening riff of Can’t Relate, the Slayer worshipping intro to Between Concrete and Sky, or the Enter Sandman-like riffing on Burning, it’s all of high quality. The energy and passion is on display here is brilliant, and really carries the album, even through the rough production.
Higher Power have provided a good, solid debut. Even though it’s marred by some technical issues, the passion and potential on display here is fantastic. Potential here is the key word because I’d love to see what Higher Power do next. Also check out this band live they’re great.
Highlights: Between Concrete and Sky, Burning, Can’t Relate
Soul Structure is out now via Flatspot Records. The album can be purchased here.
If you want to now more about Higher Power, Jim Saunders has interviewed the band which can be heard here.
The band can be found here:
