"A Change In What May Come": FRACTURE Blend Deathcore Riffage With Atmospheric Melancholy

[photo: Fracture]

Melodic and moody in equal measure, Sheffield's FRACTURE are standouts in their local scene. Taking a more atmospheric approach to the deathcore sound, the band have recently released "A Change In What May Come", their first full EP since 2022.

An ominous, swelling sound kicks the EP off with opener "Bog Rat". It sounds very Charlie Clouser/Saw-esque, but not for too long, quickly revealing a much more typical deathcore affair - low-tuned, chugging guitars, crushing drums, and snarling vocals front and centre.

The atmospherics haven't completely gone away though, instead adding a rather melancholic, sinister undertone to the heavy riffs.

The aggression continues with "A Salted Earth", another great highlight of heavy chugs and drum hits. Whereas the previous track used time to ease you in, this throws you straight in, relentless energy and all.

A short, groovy bass solo adds a nice dynamic, paired well with a telephone/radio voice effect. It offers brief respite - a chance to catch your breath before the blistering riffs return.

There is an almost 'marching' energy to it, especially as the tempo slows right down at the end. It reels you in like a trance, banging your head in unison with the track as each hit gets slower and sludgier.

"A Change In What May Come" is out now [photo: Fracture]

"The Catalyst, The Creator, The Messenger" starts with a clean guitar, an ominous soundscape rising behind it. It gives way to the trademark chugs and punchy drums, but plays well as it pushes and pulls from heavy to atmospheric, from light to dark.

The EP showcases Fracture's ability to blend soundscapes and aggression, giving a unique edge to an otherwise cliched deathcore sound. A swirling piano/music box section in penultimate track "A View Beyond This Tragedy" adds an unsettling undertone, and "Silencer" sees the band combine heavy riffs with almost electronic sounds. It should sound dissonant, but instead the band excel here, showing off their ability to be technical and nuanced.

Music video for "A View Beyond This Tragedy" [cred. Fracture]

EP closer and title track "A Change In What May Come" is probably the most diverse track. Clocking in at 1:14, it replaces all of the heavy instruments with birdsong, distant voices, and soothing orchestrals. It's poignant songwriting, highlighting the band's strength as musicians, reminding you that beneath all the heavy sounds, there is still beauty to be seen.

There's a reason that Fracture are seen as a standout in the scene. This EP rather nicely presents this reason in a wholly effective way.

"A Change In What May Come" is out NOW on streaming platforms