BackTalk – Spectators (2021)
BackTalk are a band that never shy away from confronting the major issues and problems in the world. This is something that is clear in their single ‘Spectators’ which tackles how we have been conditioned to take a step back when faced with issues we don’t approve of. Through the powerful sounds of the single, they look at how doing this impacts everyone involved while highlighting the fact that we expect others to take action.
The bystander effect is something that not a lot of music touches on which makes this an absolute pleasure to listen to. Combined with the melodic metal sound created by Farhad Kalwar (vocals), Jesus Torres (guitar), Wesley Stebbins (drums) and Brandon Todd (lead guitar), the message of the track is utterly captivating. With a touch of rock added to their infectious metal sound, they will have you rocking out to their sound while thinking about what they have to say.
‘Spectators’ hits you with a thrash of guitars that pound against your senses from the first moment. There is a seriously paced feeling to the melody that gets your heart racing through the verses. This lightens up on the chorus for a more melodic rock flow that gives you a moment to breathe and consider the lyrics. The pounding tones come back for the next verse, but there is an interesting blend of rock and metal throughout the single. This is clear in the melody but does hit harder through the vocals.
Kalwar’s vocals are a master class in balancing aggressive rock and metalcore screams. With the push of the guitars, his vocals are a death metal growl that scratches those dark parts of your spirit. This turns into a smooth and melodic rock flow that calls out into the soundscape of the chorus. From the second verse, there is an interplay within his performance as the screaming growls and melodic flows temper each other. It is an utter pleasure to listen to and really brings the message of the track home. You will find yourself wanting to sing along on the chorus or shouting out with him on the verses.
BackTalk get your heart pounding with thrashing melodics while the swinging vocals have you singing and screaming along to ‘Spectators’. The melody is infectious as it captures you in the first push of guitars. The vocals contrast melodic rock with screaming metal while considering the bystander effect.
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