Lysandra, a progressive metalcore outfit from Pittsburgh, burst onto the scene last year with their debut EP, ‘Bathed in Light.’ Formed in early 2023, the band has quickly garnered a local following. The EP, featuring three tracks, showcases a promising blend of ferocity and finesse, marking an ambitious entry for the newcomers.
The opener, “Eat Shit, Robots!”, sets the bar high. This track is a quintessential progressive metalcore anthem, seamlessly blending melodic hooks with crushing brutality. The chorus is unexpectedly catchy, providing a singalong moment amid the aggressive instrumentation. This track not only highlights the band’s technical skill but also their ability to craft engaging, dynamic music that straddles the line between harsh and harmonious.
Following up, “Mirror” dives deeper into the band’s heavier aspects. The track opens with the most guttural vocals on the EP, layering growls and screams to create a visceral listening experience. The instrumental backdrop complements the vocal ferocity with a robust mix of pounding drums and jagged guitar riffs. The balance between the growls and screams is meticulously maintained, ensuring that each element enhances the other without overshadowing.
The final track, “Cortisol,” accelerates the pace, adding a layer of urgency to the EP’s concluding moments. The riffs are heavier and relentless and the overall tempo increased, culminating in a track that is as brutal as it is swift. This piece seems designed to showcase Lysandra’s technical prowess, with complex arrangements and a relentless energy that pushes the boundaries of the genre.
While the studio versions of these tracks are polished and impactful, Lysandra’s live performances bring an additional layer of intensity and authenticity that studio recordings can’t quite capture. This speaks volumes about the band’s potential and their ability to connect with audiences, suggesting that their live shows are not to be missed.
‘Bathed in Light’ is a commendable debut, particularly for a band that has only been active for a short time. Lysandra demonstrates a robust understanding of what makes progressive metalcore resonate with listeners – complexity, melodic engagement, and unfiltered intensity. This EP not only serves as a solid foundation for their future endeavors but also as a beacon for what they can offer to the metalcore scene. With such a strong start, Lysandra is definitely a band to watch as they continue to evolve and refine their sound.
