By Lesley Macdonald
Canadian metalcore band Counterparts hail from Ontario where they formed in 2007. ‘Nothing Left To Love’ is their sixth offering and first album since 2015’s ‘Tragedy Will Find Us’.
The album begins with a haunting synthesised intro in the title track. At barely two minutes long, it builds in venom to effectively set the scene for a dark and brooding album full of scornful, hard hitting lyrics. Single ‘Wings of Nightmares’ follows – its effortless blend of melody and thrash metal assaulting the ears. About the aftermath of a breakup, it is loaded with aggression and pain, with a breakdown at the end which is sure to be well received live. ‘Paradise and Pain’ has a rhythmic scream-along chorus, sure to stick in the head but ‘The Hands That Used To Hold Me’ is standout – a haunting plea for reality to leave. Lyrics such as “suffocate me in my sleep/the weight of my belief will bury me” echo painful denial and avoidance.
As the album progresses it doesn’t relent. ‘Separate Wounds’ has a misleading gentler intro that is annihilated 30 seconds in, as Brendan (Murphy)’s vocals rip the serenity to shreds. It only gets angrier from there. ‘Your Own Knife’ is the epitome of aggression musically and lyrically. In the break “I should have let you die” is each a statement, a lamentation and an angry regret. Atmospheric synth adds something to next song ‘Cherish’ just as the album begins to sound a bit samey.
A song about self-disgust at the vulnerability a connection with another brings, ‘Ocean Of Another’ has a staccato feel, highlighting the talents of drummer Kyle Brownlee as the track is delivered at breakneck speed. ‘Imprints’ brings some respite in pace if not in message as a breakdown in the middle is filled with the promise “I will incinerate myself”. Finale ‘Nothing Left To Love’ is the most melodic, leaving listeners with a feeling of abject misery, sadness and regret.
An emotional rollercoaster of an album, ‘Nothing Left To Love’ lyrically exposes open wounds. The wounded protect themselves, turning defensive, hostile and combative and Brendan’s lyrics reflect this, loaded with vitriolic aggression. Be prepared for a heavy listen that can become a bit relentless at times. This doesn’t take away from the fantastic drum work, excellent production and incessant guitar. Yet, beware a sense of pain, regret and betrayal ebbs from this album in waves. There is plenty here that may be relatable to some.
- ‘Nothing Left To Love’ is out now. You can get your copy HERE.
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