Torqued – Coup de Grace EP 
Self-released
Release date: 29/03/2019
Running Time: 20 mins
Review by: Alun Jones
8/10
Regular Ever Metal readers may remember that Torqued’s 2018 EP, “Resurgence” was reviewed by yours truly not that long ago. You may also recall that I declared a new EP from the band would be released soon. So soon, in fact, that the EP is already out and I’m hurriedly trying to cobble this write up together!
“Coup de Grace” builds on the successful formula we heard on the previous collection, but piles on the intensity. This time, Torqued are taking us into deeper, darker territory – a trip into the recesses of the mind where anxiety and depression fester. Great lead vocals from Marc are spat out with vitriol, the tortured lyrics given malevolent form.
Musically, the four tracks on the EP deliver a battering ram to the senses. Opening with the title track, Torqued are in full-on attack mode with crushing metal. “Open Wound” follows with a relentless pounding, which bleeds effortlessly into a mighty lead guitar break from Rimmy.
Savage riffs are tempered with passages of melancholic breaks, perfectly executed in “The Darkest of Shadows”. All of these songs are multi layered, featuring haunting lead and even keyboards (?) beneath the main pummelling. Very cleverly put together – it’s as if we’re hearing the conflicting emotions within someone’s head.
The songs gallop along with a groove thanks to Kurt’s drumming and Marc’s bass, as demonstrated in final track: “The Revelation”. Torqued have also tempered their sound with a Trent Reznor-like despondency that’s added a further dimension to their music.
So, there you have it – a blistering hot metal EP that drips with torment. Torqued have cooked up a winner with “Coup de Grace” and I can’t wait to hear what’s next. I predict… Nah, that would be telling!
This review appeared on the Ever Metal website and is reproduced here for your enjoyment. Click here to visit the Ever Metal website.
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