Singapore’s metalcore scene has been slowly building. Sliding under the radar for some reason, but that is slowly starting to change.

One of the bands that is helping put Singapore on the heavy music map is metalcore/post-hardcore act Faraday.

Their latest release Delirium is the perfect blend of modern and nostalgia in the genres they are dancing between. A conceptual release that is part of a larger release, the band has stated that it is centred on Delirium, the youngest of the Endless and the embodiment of chaos, fragility, and nonlinear though.

The EP is said to be exploring ‘cosmic melancholy, emotional vulnerability, and the fractured brilliance of a mind dissolving and reforming at the edge of reality.’ 

The opening track of the EP ‘MEANT2B’ is an obvious example. With that mid-00’s throwback guitar riffs, lean towards the clean vocals and even in the song naming, there is a strong classic metalcore vibe. Wonderfully structured with catchy choruses, it is the ultimate EP opener.

Following up such a strong first song is tough, but Faraday take it in a different but equally is skilled direction with ‘Morpheus’. Almost a nod to some current metalcore powerhouses in style, like Polaris and the use of more digital soundscapes shows that they are indeed a modern metalcore act. Its dreamy like atmospheric sound is akin to bands like Enter Shikari, once again showing the band’s diverse blend of influences and styles. 

‘Masses’ has one of the catchiest riffs on the EP and is sure to be the one to make the room bounce. Heavier, more ferocious and has a more melancholic feel to the clean vocal performances. It is described by the band as ‘a dystopian reflection on humanity’s numbness and collapse, told from the gaze of a cosmic observer watching society unravel,’ and that is represented sonically on all levels- not just lyrically. It is one thing to write thematically, but being able to capture that mood across the entire instrumentation is next level. Also, the breakdown has to be noted…it is a fantastic moment to finish this section of the EP.

A strong as the opening was, it is obvious that this a conceptual EP in the way that it finishes with ‘Most Of The Time, I Think Of The Afterlife’. The melancholic mood is amplified in what is a true masterclass in a pretty, post-hardcore song. It goes from breathtaking to cinematic in the use of full-bodied percussion and strings. It sounds as if they are performing in an opera house with a orchestra, which is a real nod to not just the bands songwriting, but the production quality of this EP.

Delirium is set to be part one of a trilogy of releases, which will eventually make up a full length album. Being drip fed these releases in this smaller form is both exciting but leaves you wanting for more. We can’t wait to hear what is next.

_{Delirium by Faraday is out now.
Listen here.}