Haste, a fiery young quartet from Victoria, Australia, bursts onto the scene with their debut EP, Veracious Bastion. From the opening notes, it's clear this is a band that thrives on raw intensity and razor-sharp execution. Marrying the savagery of blackened thrash with a relentless speed metal edge, Haste's sound is an unyielding storm of grinding riffs, blistering rhythms, and ferocious energy.
The title track sets the tone with its whirlwind of chaotic-yet-controlled riffs, searing guitar solos, and Belter's venomous vocal delivery. The dynamic shifts in tempo and intricate layering of riffs keep the listener hooked, while the precision drumming of Nightshades ensures every twist and turn lands with devastating impact. It’s a masterclass in balancing unbridled aggression with technical finesse.
Tracks like "Damnation" and "Southern Aggressor" highlight the band’s ability to mix blistering speed with moments of calculated restraint. This gives the songs a sense of unpredictability and depth that rewards repeated listens. Even in their most frantic passages, Haste displays remarkable cohesion, demonstrating a maturity beyond their years.
"Gurning in Hell" and "In True Darkness" showcase the band’s penchant for adding subtle touches to their sonic assault, whether through atmospheric flourishes or well-placed samples that enhance the apocalyptic mood. The latter track, with its booming effects and unrelenting pace, stands out as a testament to the band’s creative vision and attention to detail.
What truly sets Veracious Bastion apart is the precision with which it’s executed. The production is sharp and clear, allowing every snarling riff and pounding drumbeat to shine. Haste doesn’t waste a moment—each track is lean, direct, and brimming with purpose. The EP feels like a concentrated dose of blackened thrash fury, leaving no room for excess or filler.
Haste has arrived with a vengeance, delivering a debut that’s as ruthless as it is promising. With such a strong foundation, the band has endless possibilities ahead. Whether they choose to refine their feral sound or explore new influences, their future is as bright as their music is blisteringly dark. Veracious Bastion is a must-hear release for fans of extreme metal who crave unrelenting speed and uncompromising intensity.
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