Borders
Diagnosed EP
(Self-Release)
With Borders, we have ourselves another new promising UK djent/progressive metalcore group, and, not coincidentally, another solid dose of tech-y, groovy goodness. The talent coming from across the pond seems of a greater proportion than what we see here in the States, and Borders helps highlight what those bands seem to do well. Lead-off track “Analyst” does have some middling vocal lines, but the excellent mix of tech-y groove and underlying melody help make for an impressive first impression. This leads into “Comatosed”, which features some fantastic riffs and progressions, with some genuinely unexpected songwriting choices. It leans heavily on the progressive end of the djent style, showcasing that these very talented musicians certainly know their way around a riff and a song (rarer situation than you’d think).
Their metalcore side rears an unfortunate head with a poor vocal melody and middling atmosphere in “Indoctrinated”, but closer “Watch the World Burn” brings home the bacon, highlighting what makes Borders a band to watch. Their understanding of how to make highly technical and heavy tunes so damn catchy and memorable is what sets them apart from the sea of similar groups. The members clearly know how to play, and despite the introduction of mediocre vocal melodies and breakdowns that don’t hit as hard as they could, Diagnosed is a great little EP. It doesn’t reveal itself initially, but multiple listens hint at future greatness to come and the seeds of excellence that the band have already sown.
