The Empire Shall Fall (whose vocalist Jesse Leach may be a familiar sounding name from his work with Seemless, Killswitch Engage, and Times of Grace) are set to release the first in a series of conceptual EPs. Each EP will be released only on vinyl and as a digital download until all three releases are complete, then they will be compiled for a proper CD release. Those who purchase all three vinyl releases through the band’s website will receive a complimentary CD when it is released. Volume One: Solar Plexus is the first release and it follows the band’s full length Awaken.
Solar Plexus opens with an all out assault in the form of “The Genesis of These Scars.” The song, along with “As the City Sleeps,” has a hardcore edge with a big, soaring chorus that is not unlike Times of Grace but certainly has a groovier feel to it. When the chorus hits you immediately want to be a part of it, even on the first listen. And the jazzy interlude in “As the City Sleeps” is as gorgeous as it is unexpected (I’m pretty sure I hear a sax buried in there). “Narrow, the Path I Walk Pt. I” is a big guitar piece that suggests these guys have a heavy respect for traditions aside from hardcore and intros the downright revolutionary “Narrow, The Path I Walk Pt. II.” The song really outdoes itself combining everything that was good about nineties East Cost hardcore with soulful guitar solos that speak louder than any vocalist could and a cinematic ebb and flow that keeps your attention every single second the music is playing. “The First Redemption” takes the EP out on a heavy groove that reminds me a bit of late Pantera/Early Down.
Overall, The Empire Shall Fall has my full attention. While Awaken had some interesting moments, Volume One: Solar Plexus knocks it out of the park and makes the band someone any Rock, Metal, or Hardcore fan should be paying attention to. All you band wagon jumpers should get out your Air Jordan’s because you’ll need to jump soon!
Reviewed by Mark Fisher
