Ekosa - 'Deliver us from evil', single review

Usually I'd start a review talking about the track, but the album artwork for Ekosa's new single 'deliver us from evil' deserves the initial mention. The single art captures the essence of the track perfectly, yet contrasts the sound of the song. If you usually listen to Gojira, Meshuggah or fit for an autopsy, you're probably going to like this 5 piece progressive death-metal band! Triple J Unearthed described the band as "5 mates expressing their version of brutality and personal/social critique through progressive death-metal". You can definitely hear the brutality coming through on this latest track!

The track launches in with electric guitars and drums, quickly backed up by heavy vocals that scream out "strength's not a choice; it's an obligation". When listening to the lyrics of the track you realise that they are incredibly strong and meaningful. Lines like "A man with a heart cannot ever be bought"; "a mind of malice cannot be taught" and "all cruelty stems from weakness". If you're needing a pep talk this is the track to scream out. The lyrics feel both personal and powerful.

The song has some fantastic, anthemic chants included throughout. Imagine a mosh pit with slow head banging and powerful, repeated chanting. As the song nears the finish line we are introduced to a softer tone, before being thrust into one more round of anthemic belting. If you're a progressive metal fan then this band is going to tickle your fancy.

The vocals have a grit to them that really hits deep. You can hear the passion and skill in each instrument from the get go. Ekosa are clearly some talented musicians who are starting to make waves in the progressive metal scene.

Ekosa is a band to jump on right now. With 1,023 monthly spotify listeners they are building their audience with releases such as 'murder of the hero', 'between our steps and the end', and 'necrosis'. Upcoming shows include playing at the vanguard (Newtown) on January 16th and hamilton station hotel (islington) on january 17th.

For more info on the band and to follow their socials and streaming platforms check out their linktree here.