Thornhill is definitely one of the most underrated bands I have ever come across. The Australian heavy metal quartet consists of Jacob Charlton on vocals, Ethan McCann on guitar, Ben Maida on drums and Nick Sjogren on bass. Formed in 2015 and starting off with their 2016 progressive metalcore EP, 13, the band grinded their way into touring with Architects and then Parkway Drive in 2017 and 2018, and soon after signed a deal with UNFD. Ever since, the band has released another EP (Butterfly, 2018) and two studio albums, The Dark Pool (2019) and Heroine (2022). As time has gone by, their music has gradually evolved from that progressive signature into a more unique blend of alternative metal and rock, and even traces of nu-metal can be heard in their newer music, all while still retaining those progressive roots within their soundscape. They keep carving a distinctive sound for themselves with every track and every record released, redefining heavy music and balancing it with adventurous melodies that take you on a fascinating journey. Their third and upcoming album, BODIES, is set to release on April 4, 2025 and it is already their most ambitious record yet.
The tracks released from their new album so far are "Obsession," "nerv," and latest single "Silver Swarm”. When I first heard "Obsession," I was absolutely electrified. The opening riff punched me in the face and the verse had me dancing in my pajamas. When the chorus came on, I felt my bones shake with excitement as I swayed left and right to the vocals and just before I knew it, the post-chorus was another electric shock to my spine. The bridge was heartbreakingly beautiful and I was headbanging to the outro so hard that my glasses fell off.
"nerv" was a masterful navigation of production and songwriting, just like "Obsession". So well-crafted and intricate, that it had my jaw on the floor with every section of the song that came on. The intro instantly hooked me, and the verse was a tsunami hitting me with full force. The pre-chorus perfectly prepared me for the chorus which washed over me like a river of blue crystals with how clear and well-placed each sonic element sounded in the mix. The second verse was just as impactful as the first and the pre-chorus that followed was nothing short of breathtaking. The variations in the second chorus kept it fresh and sweet and of course the outro made the song truly go out with a bang.
Production-wise, "Silver Swarm" was interesting and creative. Another strong track that perfectly sets the stage for what to expect with the upcoming album. A powerful intro, intriguing verses and a smooth chorus that captivates you with haunting melodies in the front and the background, a heavy bridge and a pretty outro that will leave you wanting more.
All three songs are so creative and well-paced that you don't even notice the fact that there is no third chorus in any of them. And that's a very difficult feat to pull off.
All in all, Thornhill are preparing us for what seems to be one killer of an album. They will be going on tour this April, supporting the albums release, and we cannot wait to hear it and see what the future has in store for the band.
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