REVIEW: “Trauma” - A Life in Exile
FEEL:
A Life in Exile's new track, "Trauma," hits you like a freight train from the get-go. They waste no time establishing a dark and brooding atmosphere with an ominous intro that feels like the soundtrack to your impending doom. Think: adrift on a dark, stormy ocean with a Lovecraftian style threat looming below (and wouldn’t you know it, the album art matches). This isn't your feel-good, sunshine-and-rainbows metal; this is the kind that stares into the abyss and dares it to blink first.
The payoff for that slow build is a devastating drop into the main verse. The groove is absolutely monstrous, the kind that makes you want to headbang until your neck gives out (and if you’re my age, that involves ibuprofen). It's a heavy, relentless rhythm that forms the backbone of the entire track. Influence from Within the Ruins (tonality), Suffokate (groove), and Born of Osiris (synths and ambience) can all be heard throughout the track. This makes for a super tasty, distinctly dark mood that leaves you wanting more. Especially when listening on a proper Hi-Fi setup (see above).
PRODUCTION:
Let’s start with the bass (Stephen McAlear) because it’s one of the first things you hear in this track, and it immediately invites you into the darkness. A super aggressive, authoritative tone is on display here. The bass is EQ’d in a way that allows it to play nice with the guitars, but not lose any of its beef, or clanky clarity at the top end. You can really hear the love in the slow droning bridges, or when Stephen is matching notes with the guitars. When you try to explain to your friends just how important the bass is to metal music, play them this track. Perhaps it’s time for me to invest in a headless Ibanez EHB1006MS…Left-handed of course.
The guitars (John Belvail and Dan Morgan) are equally impressive, boasting a tone that's sharp and biting. Scooped just enough to make some room, and beefy where it counts. They cut through the mix like a razor, adding a layer of aggression that perfectly complements the overall theme. John and Dan have always had excellent chemistry, and it’s on full display here. Listening through the Heavys H1H headphones, you can really hear the subtle layers, phrases, and creative prowess. A guitar rake here, a pinch harmonic there, awesome stuff. The guitars are also mixed/panned in a way that lets them blanket the mix without smothering it. I think these two are also rocking headless guitars…is there a theme here?
Vocally, Jose "Rafa" Cruz delivers a performance that's both powerful and demands attention. The vocals aren't just growls and screams; there's a clear sense of passion and anguish in the delivery. I’m a stickler for screamed vocals. I love aggression, but I want to understand what you’re trying to tell me. Jose’s performance here fits the bill, and exceeds it with excellent sustain, push, and articulation. He’s crafted a voice that not only takes you over with volume but sets a mood. One of darkness, beauty, pain, and doom (those are good things). Just listen to the end of the track.
The drums here are absolutely incredible (Paul Hutchins). They burst through the mix in the intro to deliver an ominous rumbling that cascades into the first drop with absolute authority. Not only is there an earth shattering groove being provided, but Paul uses the entire kit here to provide some incredible atmosphere. With each listen, especially through the Heavys H1H, I could hear a new fill, cymbal or snare accent that made me smirk. The kick is tuned low, and packs a punch. The sub mix on it bolsters the track without muddying it up. The snare has a wonderful organic sound to it that’s augmented to cut through, sound modern, and snap you into the song. That snare must owe Paul some money. Just listen to how hard it’s being hit. The overhead mix is clear, but not too bright. The ride in particular has a darkness to it that I just can't get enough of.
The samples, and synths used in the track elevate it to the next level. I know first-hand how daunting and arduous it can be to program not only the right synth, but the right amount of synth. Here, every drop, drone, and pad provides some serious sonic candy. Well done, lads.
SUMMARY
Overall, "Trauma" is a sick metal track that doesn't pull any punches. It's heavy, aggressive, and undeniably catchy. It executes its chosen style with precision and conviction. If you're a fan of bands that deliver a relentless sonic assault, then A Life in Exile's "Trauma" is definitely worth checking out. It's a headbanger's delight and a testament to the band's ability to craft a truly unique metal experience while paying homage to their influences. This track definitely needs a spot on your metal playlists, friends.
Reviewed by Josh Hammond
Skycrest Studio Works, Helena, MT