Not one for sticking to particular genre labels, Australia’s Make Them Suffer have been referred to as metalcore, deathcore, melodic death metal, heavy hardcore and melodic metalcore but to name a few. Regardless of whatever category you place them in, it’s safe to say they are experts at pushing creative boundaries. Following a lineup change and experimentation with their sound over the last 10 years or so, the band have returned with their self-titled record which will be released on Friday, 8th November via Sharptone Records.
The band’s vocalist Sean Harmanis comments on the new record:
“It’s Make Them Suffer’s greatest hits, except they’re all new songs. But in all seriousness, there’s a lot of eyes and ears on this record. We definitely had something to prove with this album, and I think we’ve achieved that.”
The record opens with “The Warning,” a dramatic minute long intro consisting of an ominous choir supported by densely atmospheric synths and distorted growls and screams until things really kick off with “Weaponized.” Addictive riffs and a rolling drum-beat catch your attention complete with ethereal synths. The breakdown comes early as Harmanis roars with fury and power. The chorus soars with rich melodics and the contrast between guttural growls and clean harmonies from new keyboardist and backing vocalist Alex Reade. Impassioned screams and heavy riffs continue throughout bringing to an end an extremely solid start to this record. One element which remains consistent throughout the entire record is the use of electronica, keys and synths. Although this is a huge focus on the band’s signature sound, don’t forgo the guitars, bass and drums as these are just as prominent. “Oscillator” is a prime example of their musical prowess where the track perfectly blends the electronic element with organic instrumentation. “Doomswitch” serves as one of the lead tracks of the record and expertly showcases Harmanis’ vocal capabilities in a number of different intense styles, beautifully complimented by Reade’s heartfelt cleans. Intricate riffs wind their way through the track, creating a dynamic blend of melody and technicality with support from rapid fire drums and intergalactic synths.
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“Mana God” doesn’t hold back as it explodes with intense ferocity. The guitars and vocals take a crushing death metal turn to begin with before the breakdowns and keyboards come crashing down around you. Technically devastating is a term which fully encapsulates the fury of this track with it’s jarring time signatures and contrasting styles. “Epitaph” is another track released from the record which is guaranteed to get the mosh pit surging. Once again, the juxtaposition between demonic growls and ethereal cleans create a dynamic atmosphere of beauty and rage. It’s the guitars however that stand out on this track; the intricately precise riffage create a whole other level of dynamic devastation. “No Hard Feelings” is incredibly dark in nature. It still maintains a heavy edge but it is more melodically inclined with the interplay of Harmanis’ and Reade’s contrasting vocal styles intertwined to create an electrifying chemistry of dark and light. “Venusian Blues” revisits the more technical side of the band with complex guitars and raging drums. The introduction of Harmanis’ cleaner, almost mystical vocals was a welcome surprise considering his various guttural vocal styles had been showcased up until now.
Descending into the concluding section of the record, Make The Suffer focus on bringing the devastation to full force with “Ghost Of Me.” A certified banger of a track which goes straight for the jugular and doesn’t let go. Signature heavy riffs, fevered synths and intense drums lead the charge accompanied by impassioned vocals. “Tether” showcases the band’s use of electronic elements more so than ever before. A chugging, headbanging assault on the senses which capitalises on all elements of the band’s signature sound. A richly addictive chorus will have you chanting back to the band as a brief reprieve to the cacophonous storm. “Small Town Syndrome” takes on a djent style groove before launching into absolute chaos. One final push of powerful rage and unhinged energy to close off an incredibly high octane record.
A band looking to constantly improve, expand and annihilate, Make Them Suffer have quickly become one of the driving forces within the ‘Core’ scene and quite rightly so. Captivating, addictive and an absolute eradicator of a record, this self-titled offering speaks for itself.
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Make Them Suffer is out on November 8th via Sharptone Records.
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