Cry Havoc - New Life
Cry Havoc are most definitely creating a stir on the live circuit for their energetic shows and are now looking to carry on that reputation with their debut EP New Life. Jam-packed with classic metal sounds, this EP is a sound introduction to the UK Based heavy metallers. After performing alongside bands like The Defiled, Voodoo Six, Jettblack, Romeo Must Die as well as their own gigs and festival performances like Hammerfest III back in 2011 these boys have gone from strength to strength.
Intro track Losing Everything announces the bands classic style with booming cymbals, heavy drums and punchy guitar riffs. This along with vocalist Gavin Bolts interesting vocal style makes their listeners sit up and take note. The passion and energy behind this track are immense and pair that with the impressive guitar work, this is an outstanding opener!
Next up is Ignition which is a huge departure from the first track yet completely mesmerising and unrelenting. Like the opener, it is catchy and infectious with ear squeezing riffs and incredible guitar solos yet somehow the style is completely different.
Alone attacks the senses next with thumping drums and a crescendo of growls and heavy guitar. The stand out part of this track is Elliot Lipscombes outstanding drumming and brings the track into early Slayer territory.
The release closes with the title track leaving the audience wanting more as the pace shifts from aggressive to melodic seamlessly and ending abruptly conjuring up a few Pantera moments.
Although this is only a four track EP, the mixture of styles and talent is unrelenting. Martyn Ford has done a great job producing a crisp, heavy sound that showcases the bands musical talent. Cry Havoc show a huge amount of promise and I am genuinely interested to see what a full release from these guys has to offer. All they need to do is experiment a little more with the subject matter and they are well on their way to a blossoming career.