hyper-focus on a full-scale sensory onslaught of their own design. They stretch their sound almost to a breaking point, reining in fits of polyrhythmic bloodletting with a respite of powerful and poignant melodies.

For as extreme as the sonic dynamics are, it’s the extremity of the group’s intent that makes their signature style dangerous and utterly alive.

A clear sense of purpose drives the Connecticut quintet—Matthew McDougal [vocals], Cory Emond [guitar], Tim Sullivan [drummer, vocals], Nathan Calcagno [bass, vocals], and Cody DelVecchio [guitar]—and defines their fourth full-length LP and Sumerian Records debut, Yearning: the unbeautiful after.

“With the record, we aimed to be uncompromising and really plant our flag,” Matthew states. “As more time passes, heavy music continues to lose its teeth. This genre is supposed to be threatening; it should have an edge and make you feel something. We tried to create an album with urgency. If we did anything correctly, it will speak for itself.”

“We did exactly what we wanted to do,” affirms Cory. “You could say we pushed everything in both directions, but we were simply being who we are as a band.”