Vitriarch - 'R'lyeh' single review

If you're a fan of progressive metalcore, then you're sure to love this five-piece band from Canberra, Australia. Introducing vitriarch with their single 'R'lyeh'. R'lyeh is the fifth single off the bands debut EP, titled 'Mythos'. Released on May 16th, 2025, this track is packed to the brim with harsh vocals, softly sung contrasting harmonies and long, throaty growls. It's an epic track from start to finish.

The lyrics in this track are haunting. The band don't let us down with these descriptively dark and eerie lyrics. The EP has been described by the band as "short stories told through hard-hitting metal", and you can feel the storytelling through lyrics such as...

"A place to feed, Torn sick and violent creatures; Now witness sin, Sin beset by vile fiends; Awoken by These worse than hollow beings, Bring forth despair"

As epic as the entire track is, My favourite part of the track has to be the climactic, Electric guitar outro. with its fast-paced riffs and shifts between chaotic vs melodic strums, This fast-paced finale leads into a peaceful end to the track. The band have said that their music is an "exploration of deific and mythical concepts from both modern and historical times" and this is reflected in the intensity, but also the peacefulness that is woven into the track.

The track begins with harsh vocals set against electric guitars. We are given over a minute of pure, throaty vocals before the clean vocals break through the noise. This track is technically wonderful and truly showcases the depths of the vocalists' range. Such sustained harsh vocals are an impressive feat and make for some great listening for those who love heavy music.

To see the storytelling unfold, check out the bands instagram page. The band have strategically released their EP track by track to give you time to take in each piece. To see the lyric videos and official music videos, head on over and check out their youtube page.

For more information, visit Vitriarch's linktree here.

We are looking forward to seeing where this band goes in 2026!