Metalcore legends-in-the-making Counterparts surprised the music scene with a surprise EP, Heaven Let Them Die, and the band has raised the bar again. This EP is the follow-up to 2022’s A Eulogy for Those Still Here. While I thought it would have been a tough album to follow up, Counterparts conquered this challenge in every way possible. The EP has it all: aggression, pain, ferocity, and a message to get across. Not to get emotional in the review, but as a fan of the band who has found newfound hope with every release, this is a monumental stepping stone for the band as they continue to get the recognition they deserve. Counterparts is that type of band that has inspired dozens of new and upcoming bands in the music scene as they effortlessly blend hardcore, metalcore, and with this release, deathcore elements. I found myself going back to relisten to each track over and over again with tears forming in my eyes.
Photo from Counterparts Facebook, Photo Credit: Gabe Becerra | Album Art from Pure Noise Records
When speaking about the EP, vocalist Brendan Murphy states:
“Heaven Let Them Die is Counterparts at our most aggressive — sonically, lyrically and visually. Picking up where Eulogy ended, Heaven Let Them Die details how I came to terms with all I had foreshadowed in the previous release and how that led me to where I am now. This EP is the most authentic representation of Counterparts to date — honest, harsh and without restraint.
Murphy also states on X (formally Twitter) the following:
from eulogy until recently was prob the worst time in my life like I fully gave up didn’t care what I did or what happened to me just got fucked up every day and sucked as a person/was a let down in all aspects of my life. never again man lesson fuckin learned
— brendan murphy (@brendan905) November 7, 2024
probably don’t even deserve another shot to do things right but I feel like I got one and I’m tryin my best to be better every day. thanks for not giving up on me even tho I did. love u guys.
— brendan murphy (@brendan905) November 7, 2024
While the entire EP is amazing, "Heaven Let Them Die" is my favorite so far. Each listen tears deeper at your heartstrings until you are left as a sobbing mess on the ground. It reminds me of "Love Me" from 2019's Nothing Left to Love. It is a short track but is packed full of emotion. I am about to head to the Pure Noise store to pick up a physical copy of everything. Be sure to grab a copy of the release here before they sell out!
If you happen to live in the Orlando, FL area, be sure to catch Counterparts as they support Knocked Loose on the You Won't Go Before You're Supposed To Tour alongside Militarie Gun and Three Knee Deep on November 12th. I for one, am already waiting for a tour in support of the EP and will be there front and center.
Keep up with the band on Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), & Facebook!
