EP Review: Paradigm // The Forgotten Age

The Forgotten Age are a Welsh metal band who incorporate a diverse range of influences including metalcore pioneers Bullet for My Valentine and Avenged Sevenfold. This is evident on their brand new self-released EP ‘Paradigm’ on 29th June. The EP contains big riffs and choruses, but these feel lost in the messy production.

The tracks on here show a lot of potential, for example, the nu-metal influenced riff in opening track ‘Faith.’ The synths create a haunting gloomy effect in the track, but the guitar tone is muddy.

As the EP goes on, it’s clear that The Forgotten Age wear their influences on their sleeve. There are hints of Bullet For My Valentine in the guitar work, and some soaring vocal performances, but aside from that, there isn’t much that separates them from the crowd. Amongst the wispy screams which lack passion, the clean vocals pack a punch. The transition from ‘Remember’ to ‘Relent’ works very nicely because it keeps the EP flowing. ‘Relent’ is a beautifully crafted melodic ballad with a chorus that soars above the trees.

The dark atmosphere of the title track is felt in the vocals and the crushing, pummeling guitar. However, the drums are low in the mix, reducing the tracks’ impact. Perhaps the mix could have been clearer because there is potential, especially in the way the guitars play off each other.

On the whole, ‘Paradigm’ offers some tasty creative moments, but it’s inconsistent and the muddy production lets it down.

Words by Ermis Madikopoulos