‘World Collapse’ is a change of direction for Heriot, departing from their heavy-hardcore roots to produce an easily accessible, engaging and abundantly experimental release. For the most part their hardcore influences are put to one side to focus wholeheartedly on metal and it certainly changes things up.
An epic opener in every sense, unlike other tunes and massively unexpected, ‘Myrr’ could legitimately handle itself on a massive stage. Whenever listened to it is impossible not to imagine a fiery stage and three dudes absolutely killing it. Almost two minutes in to the metallic savagery, the EP’s heaviest moment hits: ‘China Lake’ is a monster; it’s the darkest shit you can imagine multiplied by ten, paired with the type of brutality any ‘slam’ band would envy.
Standout out track ‘Kleptocracy’ begins with a delicate guitar part and gang vocals which, despite usually being an alien concept for the band, is really atmospheric and nice. The niceties are short lived however as bassist/vocalist Jake Packer, with all the surprise of a Randy Orton RKO, unveils a chilling shriek before the track continues on with villainous power.
The non-stop savage bleakness of the four unforgiving tracks is slightly overshadowed by the bands previous work. Their first EP, ‘Violence’, certainly feels more urgent and though the change to a doomier pace is an impressive step in a new direction, it doesn’t quite live up to older work.
LEW TROTT