Japan’s electro-metal legends Crossfaith have exploded onto the scene with their new three-track EP Freedom, which features Enter Shikari’s very own Rou Reynolds and Rize/The Bonez’ rapper Jesse. Crossfaith launches their listeners into a neo-futuristic journey where freedom is being compromised through the introduction of human/machine hybrids and an oppressive government.
The opening track Freedom opens with synth lines that radiate a wailing siren, before the drums make an appearance and Crossfaith unleash their heavy breakdowns. Amongst the metalcore, Crossfaith have been experimenting with other genres; this is made most evident in the middle of the song, where there’s an electro beat that is matched by some funky rapping.
The next song, Rockstar Steady, rallies you up with its mixture of metalcore and MC party vibes, and the odd hip-hop mash-up makes this song a fun listen. Jesse only hypes it up even more with his fiery vocals, creating a catchy presence. The final song is Diavolos, the most intense song of the whole EP. Crossfaith crank up their metalcore with searing guitars and frontman Kenta Koie’s screaming vocals, bringing listeners back to the essence of the band’s sound. This EP is an intriguing listen, particularly due to Crossfaith’s experimentation with different genres, and their bold efforts are to be commended.
