Looking passed the clichéd lyrics, there is a great blend of riffs and melody contained on The Dead Rabbitts’ new record ‘Shapeshifter’. The vocals clearly come from a man enraged by the world and the presence of some sketchy characters. Love plays a part, well the lack of it, the storyline is intriguing though, the fable marches on like a streamline of comrades readying for a battle that could change everything.

The battle-hard guitar lines drop like an atomic bomb, blasting through the tedium and normality, the instrumentals are so diverse and critical. When piecing together this record, the band must have clawed the eyes out of normalcy, generating a state of shock to themselves that they can do it properly without rubbing the feet of overworked styles. Their style is different and robustly intact.

The choruses are infectious. ‘Nothing But A Reject’ showcases a chorus that bubbles with sorrow and dynamic riffs. The vocals from leading man Craig Mabbitt are consistent, he doesn’t break his voice. The screaming tension is evident, broadening the songs appeal. ‘Shapeshifter’ is a song that pinpoints the band’s diversity. Unlocking riffs that morph and grow, they certainly have discerning ears.

‘Deer In The Headlights’ begins with downbeat vocals. The screams rise again, adding a ferocious feel. The chorus is yet again prominent and infectious, startling the heart as it rushes in. ‘Ghost In My Bedroom’ commences with a thumping drumbeat and biting riffs that showcase supreme instrumentation.

The Dead Rabbitts are an act that don’t sit around perfecting their sound. There is a roughness and rawness, a constant downpour of sneers and screams. They haven’t bolted down their feelings, they’ve let them bask in their music. ‘Shapeshifter’ is a record that does lack in evocative wordplay, but will appeal to the instrumental enthusiasts.

4/5

‘Shapeshifter’ by The Dead Rabbitts is out now on Tragic Hero Records.

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Words by Mark McConville (@Writer1990Mark)