Stepping onto the stage today is Deadweight, an American metalcore group from Tampa, Florida. Founded in 2020, the band wasted no time getting on shows while writing their debut 2023 release, In Darkness In Light. You may have seen them perform alongside bands like Burn Absolute, Fear the Light, or even out-of-state champs like Discoveries or Curses. But the list of groups they have played with is long, pointing towards Deadweight's commitment to growing and their passion for music itself. Holding down the lineup are guitarist Ronnie Cooper, bassist Jacob Merkley, and drummer Eric Stillwell. The group recently parted ways with their vocalist Brandon Weaver but have recruited Robby Anttila of Burn Absolute to step in for their upcoming run, where they will be supporting Tampa deathcore unit Izora from 1.31-2.4.
But what I want to talk about today is "Prey" feat. Jordan Fiory, DW's newest single available everywhere now. It is a certified heater that comes out of the gate swinging. You might want to take a few steps back if you aren't prepared for the chaos that will absolutely ensue during this track live. The single accompanies the announcement of the group's second EP, titled 'Dying Land', out worldwide on December 25th, 2024. Additionally, features from Gabe Sabella and Patrick Finster are also included on the upcoming release: the end of the year and beginning of 2025 are chalk full of music for DW fans. "Prey" is actually the first song I have heard from the Tampa trio, but after going through their discography, I feel it is a solid addition to their arsenal. Across the board, this track is utterly crushing and brutal on all fronts, whether that be vocally, lyrically, or instrumentally.
Below is my personal interpretation and experience of this song.
"Prey" feat. Jordan Fiory
Waiting in the shadows across the lands is a force many thought long forgotten to the sands of time. The tales shared of them put even the most stoic and hard hunters to unease; the thought of them creeping in the night or in the brush injected all with fear and adrenaline. When they pounce on unsuspecting travellers or scavengers, nothing is ever left to be found; no, they do not hide their kill; rather, they consume every last spec of their prey. They fight to fill a void that will never be satisfied, but on a primal level they care not; they live for the thrill and to one day wipe mankind off the board for good.
I don't often throw around the words 'brutal' or 'crushing' due to the fact they aren't typically expressive or have much depth to them, but songs like "Prey" give them that. As a whole, if you are into metalcore that has elements of the older days with modern progressive notes and an overall raging intensity, then these guys are right up your alley! Make sure to stream their newest single and catch them on the road here soon!
FFO: Polaris, Chelsea Grin, Discoveries
