In this day and age, bands can get noticed in a variety of ways. Most take the more traditional route of touring and recording, whilst some make use of social media and the internet to get their music heard. French metalcore band Our Theory are one of those bands. Having gained a following through their covers of popular Justin Bieber and Rihanna songs, the quintet are taking this newfound attention by showcasing their original material on ‘Renaissance’.
First impressions prove to be deceiving as Our Theory come off as your slick run-of-the-mill metalcore band. Yet on further inspection, their presentation is well-rounded. Opening track ‘Mirrors’ sets the tone with its stabbing guitars, scaling vocals and subtle electronica. ‘Blue Valentine’ is an explosive, mosh-ready number that highlights the competitive duel vocals from Alex Vincent-Rey and guitarist and co-producer Medhi Major.
‘Girl’ roars with pounding drums and crushing guitars providing the backdrop to a smooth, ear worm of a chorus. Add to that whirling and stuttering effects and (slight) hip-hop breakdown, and you’re left with an EP highlight.
By this point, it’s clear Our Theory have mastered the art of producing favourable melodic metalcore down to a tee. ‘Wish You Were Here’ is admittedly catchy yet not the most memorable cut on offer. However closing track ‘Unbreakable’ allows Our Theory to prove their musical might in the form of djent-esque guitars, blaring screams, swirling electronics and an impassioned chorus.
It’s clear Our Theory are heading in the right direction on ‘Renaissance’, however there are nuisances that could be tweaked. Whilst the presentation is slick, at times the production sounds overdone and it spoils the crucial rawness. Their songwriting also proves to be ineffective and far too formulaic.
For all its positives, ‘Renaissance’ suffers from one major negative – its inability to leave a lasting impression.
2.5/5
‘Renaissance’ EP by Our Theory is out now on We Are Triumphant Records.
Our Theory links: Facebook|Twitter|Instagram|Bandcamp
Words by Sean Reid (@SeanReid86)
