REVIEW: 'Hate Tape 18' by Greed

Greed are the newest five piece, metallic hardcore band from Leeds and on 24th September released their debut, four track EP- 'Hate Tape 18' -via CounterCulture Records. I had seen that many of my friends were talking about this and posted on Instagram that they were digging it, so I thought I would trust their judgement and give it a listen. For an odd reason, I wasn't expecting much as there are so many bands in the scene right now that are trying to execute this sound; I instantly thought it would sound the same as those but, to my surprise, I was mistaken. So, well done lads. You cracked me.

War sirens echo as the EP begins with the song 'Mould' which leads us slowly into metallic riffs and enticing discords which lay beneath the ferocious vocals which are monstrous and cutting. Two step beats are littered throughout the song to break up the different sections of and to give the opportunity for crowd movement when they play this live. As a whole, this song is definitely well structured, leaves enough to be desired and room for movement and the filthy discords, which are used once again to conclude the song.

Song two is titled 'Transparent'. It is fuelled by heavy riffs with frantic stomping beats, but before long, we get a taste for the punchy bass tone as the song slows down with the screeching guitar in the background. As the pace gradually builds back up, the tension begins to rise in your body as you wait to hear what comes next... and of course, after the wait, we are blessed with a threatening and deadly riff and subsequent beatdown- just what I was waiting for! Although, this was a simple technique, this rise and fall was a real great move; playing around with the dynamics and tempo really got me fixated more on what I was listening to and ever more excited about what the next song may force into my suspecting ears. It's one of those sections which you find yourself listening to over and over again because you want to experience it once more- I loved it.

Next, 'Greed' mixes the right amount of groove into the song without compromising their aggressive and massively heavy edge. The drums work perfectly to provide this feel as the guitars slug behind them. Stuffed with fury and rage once more, this song doesn't disappoint and impressed me again; i'm hard to please, so I was definitely shocked by my verdict on this one!

To conclude the release, 'Empty//Under the knife' follows which again utilises all that i've heard so far in the release. It doesn't let the EP down in any way and means that the EP on a high just like it began. It's clear that time and effort has gone into making this release; they've really provided a little something different which is a breathe of fresh air. I hadn't heard of 'Greed' before I stumbled upon this release, but now I can safely say I will be keeping an eye out on their tour dates and further releases because I'm already eager to hear more! Hopefully they will stop by Birmingham soon...

By Amy Demidow