Mauvais // Frail Words [EP Review]

Band: Mauvais

Release: Frail Words (EP)

Area: Adelaide

Date of release: 25th February, 2018

Genre: Metalcore

Reviewer: Robert William McLellan

Record Label: Unsigned

Mixed and Mastered by: Scottie Simpson

For Fans Of: Honest Crooks, The Acacia Strain, Graves

Next Gig: The Last Chance Rock & Roll Bar, 25th of March

“I’m sorry, I’m trying, why can’t I stop crying, losing grip of my mind, it’s ok, I’ll be fine”

It’s not often that an 5 song EP requires and intro track, but the opener 'Burden' sets the stage. Making ample use of atmospheric lead guitar and hypnotic rhythms, we are prepared for what is to come next.

Jaycob is a talented and ferocious vocalist in his own right, that being said Jerry Chard of Honest Crooks lends his monstrous voice to the title track of the EP, which contains what is undoubtedly the most powerful breakdown on this release.

Drummer Jared Wood’s straightforward style of playing is a staple in this genre, but that doesn’t stop him from shining through. It isn’t hard to over-complicate a beat when you’re given so much room to move, but throughout the EP the drums are tasteful and serve the music well, propelling each song from breakdown to breakdown.

Guitarists Adan, Ben and bassist Marcus are clearly influenced by The Acacia Strain, and based on the track 'Manipulator' they’re not afraid to show it. Dissonant leads and chugging on downtuned guitars are the very reason this genre is applauded and eschewed. There is certainly more than enough variety in the guitar work to keep the listener interested, and would easily keep a crowd moving.

Mauvais would be right at home touring with the likes of Justice For The Damned and Cursed Earth, a show I would happily pay good money to see.

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Vocals: 7/10

Guitars: 6/10

Bass: 6/10

Drums: 8/10

Lyrics: 3/5

Would You Go And See Them (WYGAST) 4/5

Mixing: 7/10

Production: 15/20

Structure: 17/20

Overall: 68/100

Personal Enjoyment: 7/10