No matter what associations that come with the name (and they have had to address them apparently) it feels only fair to point out and keep in mind that Black Corona came first. Formed in 2017 in the alpine city of Innsbruck, Austria, this groove-metal four piece as uncompromising in their music as they seem to be with their identity – details that are unmistakable in their debut album The Mission.
The record is distinctly true to their groove-metal tag however other influences are audibly present. They display a slightly symphonic edge in – prominent in ‘Sweet Shadow’ and ‘The Night Eternal.’ They follow a more modern style of metal throughout akin to Trivium and Killswitch Engage. However, its elements such as a distinctly thrash ride on ‘Flow’ and a generally aggressive and thunderous tone to most tracks that make this a serious metal record for listeners looking for a rush of adrenaline.
Its not that it doesn’t have its more mellow moments. ‘Resolution’ and ‘Aterna’ are heavy tracks but both feature melodic guitars that err to a majestic feel. The standout track on the album has to be ‘Areas’ with a catchy riff that brings the album up to its usual roaring pace.
This album is consistent, memorable and a debut to be proud of. Black Corona release The Mission on May 22 via Art Gates Records. Check out the audio for the title track below!
