Showing promise of good things to come
A relatively new act on the Melbourne metal scene in the last few years is the four-piece thrash act In Malice’s Wake.
Having formed in late 2001, the band have managed to spread their name through the underground with their independently released five track demo in 2003, and along with it they’ve gained plenty of shows (In particular playing support to acts such as Psycroptic, Abrasion, Bowelmouth, Omnium Gatherum and Alarum). Two years on from their demo, and In Malice’s Wake have returned with Blackened Skies, and something that is not only far more interesting, but also something far more professional sounding as well.
The opening minute to the opening number To Run With The Darkness... sees In Malice’s Wake attempt to create an anticipated build towards a full on assault, but unfortunately fail to really make the huge impact worthwhile due to a muddied production and a lack of sharpness. But having said that, when guitarist/backing vocalist Dave Lowes finally rip away at an aggressive and punishing riff along with bassist Ben Withers and drummer Mark Farrugia, the precision based thrash backing brings to mind many of the late ‘80’s thrash greats. Helping shape In Malice’s wake sound too is vocalist/guitarist Shaun Farrugia with his roughened vocal style that provides plenty of blackened anger, but just clear enough to keep things melodic.
The title track Blackened Skies once again relies on a slow build up, and unlike the opener, works perfectly. Taking on slower tempo and clean guitar lines, Blackened Skies (Which has the lyrics taking on man’s continued destruction of Earth through pollution) is highlighted by some great lead breaking towards the end, while the lengthy As Dusk Covers Day is simply a pile-driving number that never lets up over it’s five minute plus running time (Apart from the Metallica like soloing that carries the track to an end).
The final number Weakness In Numbers is by far the E.P.’s strongest effort. Utilising the faster paced riffing, the well mixed dual vocal approach and an array of structural changes within the track, In Malice’s Wake prove they more than know their way around a punishing thrash sound.
If truth be told, In Malice’s Wake still have some way to go to really creating something unique, but the most interesting thing about the four tracks on Blackened Skies is the huge potential the band project. The riffs, vocals and overall playing ability are there, and with a little refinement and time, this is certainly a band with a huge future in the making.
(Independent Release)
