Echo Scale™: ★★★★ (4.5)
Just when we thought Grimsby’s two-piece sonic wrecking ball, Mormegil (Matt Ogle on vocals, Dan Bendall on vocals and guitar), might take a breather after their ear-splitting invasion with “Aliens” back in April, they’ve slammed back into the fray with a new single, “Warfare.” Released on June 22nd, this track isn’t just another drop in the ocean; it’s a meteor of pure, unadulterated heaviness that, in our humble opinion, stands as their strongest offering to date.
While “Aliens” revelled in its eclectic chaos, “Warfare” tightens the focus, delivering a relentless assault that leaves no room for ambiguity. Thematically, this song is exactly what it says on the tin: warfare. There’s no subtlety here, and frankly, why would there be? Mormegil’s modus operandi is brutality, front and centre, and “Warfare” is their most direct statement yet.
A Masterclass in Early 2000s Metalcore, Redefined
If you’re hankering for a sonic trip down memory lane to the glory days of early 2000s metalcore, “Warfare” is your express ticket. This track channels the raw power and intricate aggression of bands like Trivium, Killswitch Engage, Lamb of God, and As I Lay Dying. But don’t mistake it for a mere homage; Mormegil inject their own venom, particularly through those subtly more evil screamed vocals, carving out a sound that’s distinctly their own within this revered subgenre.
Guitar: The Unsung Hero Gets Its Due
The true MVP of “Warfare” is undoubtedly the guitar work. It’s an absolute assault delivered in glorious stereo, sounding nothing short of enormous. The EQ is spot-on, the gain perfectly dialled in, creating a tone that’s rich, full, and cuts through the mix with surgical precision. The lead tone in the solo, in particular, showcases a remarkable ear for sonic craftsmanship – the kind of tone that might seem unassuming in isolation but truly comes alive when nestled within the song’s pulverizing framework. From start to finish, the guitar delivers a masterclass in groove, technicality, and impeccable taste. Nicely done, indeed.
Vocals: A Tale of Two Tones
Matt Ogle’s screamed vocals are as tight and impactful as we noted in our “Aliens” review. There’s a palpable Randy Blythe influence, but with an added layer of technical finesse that demonstrates serious range and an uncanny ability to unleash aggressive yet unsettlingly creepy tones. It’s a vocal performance that perfectly aligns with the band’s brutal aesthetic.
However, the clean vocals, which we praised in “Aliens” for their mournful anchor amidst the chaos, face a slight setback here. While the performance itself is undeniably strong, the production just doesn’t do them justice. They sound, for lack of a better word, small. A bit more compression, a few more layers (if they’re double-tracked, try quad-tracking the motherfunkers!), and a touch more reverb would undoubtedly elevate their impact and allow that naturally bleak tone to truly soar.
On the whole, the production in “Warfare” marks a significant step forward from “Aliens.” Where we noted a “clinical” edge previously, here the guitars, bass, and screams sound far more organic and natural, injecting the track with more character and, dare we say, relatability. It feels like Mormegil are truly finding their stride in the studio. The only lingering gripe remains the drums, which still retain a somewhat unnatural sound and could benefit from a greater dynamic range to truly perfect this otherwise stellar track.
Echo Rebel’s Verdict: Your New Workout Anthem
In conclusion, “Warfare” is unequivocally Mormegil’s best work yet. It’s instantly catchy, relentlessly fast-paced, and, as always, utterly brutal. If your idea of relaxation involves a quiet evening in, look elsewhere. But if you’re craving some bone-shaking metal to power through a heavy gym session, or if you need to scream your lungs out on the drive home after Janet from HR has been, well, a bit of a bitch, then “Warfare” by Mormegil is precisely what you need.
