Glassing are a blackened hardcore band from the US and this is their second album.
I do so like these hybrid styles that are almost impossible to lump into a single genre, or to easily categorise. This particular release mixes hardcore, black metal, and post-metal into something quite personable, and it’s a very effective and enjoyable listen because of this.
Angular hardcore riffs and devastating aggression bash your head in and mess with your brain. But wait, there’s also atmospheric blackgaze and screeching blackened screaming. Mixed in with this are elements of emotive post-metal and introspective depth, alongside some blistering noise rock parts.
Spotted Horse is a relatively diverse listen, and easily demonstrates its skill of pacing and dynamics. This is an album to explore in the darkness, despite having shades of light interspersed within its musical makeup. Each track has its own identity, and as the album unfolds you can hear all manner of different influences appear, (Coven is entirely ambient, for example, and closer The Wound Is Where the Light Enters is a post-rock piece of calm reflection). It’s clear that the band have put work into these songs, and each one appears like a loved creation in its own right, while also existing holistically in a supporting framework.
Blackgaze hardcore is probably the simplest appelation for something like this, but doesn’t tell the whole story. Spotted Horse is a beguiling mix of Alcest, KEN Mode, (early) Norma Jean, and Converge.
A recommended listen.
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