'Opacity': Arcade Stories - Single Review

Arcade Stories packs a punch with their first release of 2025, ‘Opacity’, a bold, weighty, and grinding track that’s full of heart and tension soothed by a sweet melodic release. 

Based in Mackay, Queensland, Arcade Stories has already garnered a supportive fanbase following their run supporting Northlane and Windwaker in MacKay during their 2022 regional tour. Their latest track ‘Opacity’ proves their success thus far was no fluke. 

‘Opacity’ is immediately off to a racing start with a delightfully heavy chugging guitar rhythm, aptly supported by the drums who propel this track into another level of expertise and enjoyment.

The drums sit perfectly in the pocket, fitting into the grueling chugging set by the rhythm guitar with ease, and providing captivating drum fills, delicious double pedals with an avoidance of simple, boring, rhythms.

Arcade Stories can proudly boast an excellent heavy metal drummer.

Arcade Stories’ lead guitarist provides a refreshing melodic colour to ‘Opacity’.

As the chugging rhythm guitar lays the groundwork, the searing lead guitar provides an other-worldly, haunting atmosphere that leaves listeners feeling as though they’re floating. A feeling not unlike that of the moments just before the mosh closes in around you. 

like any good mosh, ‘Opacity’ does rush in around you, with the crushing riffs, thunderous drums, and rolling bass. ‘Opacity’ lifts you up, building and building, only to pummel you down into the satisfying pulp of noise and feeling that you’ve been longing for. 

Arcade Stories’ use of samples and turn-table scratches adds a new twist to the more traditional metal breakdowns. instead they call back to the early 2000’s nu-metal scene of Linkin Park and Slipknot.

The nu-metal inclusions feel refreshing and seem to indicate a new-direction for metalcore bands as the blending of genres, influences, and decades increases. 

Hayden Burrows, a long-time member of the band, should also be commended for his debut vocal performance. Burrows’ vocals feel steady, experienced, and self-assured.

They are the vocals of a confident and powerful vocalist that is sure to only grow in skill and likability. 

‘Opacity’ is a storming first single of the year that bellows from the rooftops the deserved confidence and musical prowess for this emerging Queensland band.

It’s a song you can listen to on repeat, that makes you feel powerful, exhilarated, and ready to take on the heaviest of storms. 

Arcade Stories is one metalcore bandwagon you’ll want to hop aboard before they leave the station.

They’re sure to be doing the long haul. 

For more information about Arcade Stories find their linktree here.