Genres are always a confusing business. More often than not bands classified in one small area of what we lovingly call punk rock belong in another. One of the most frustrating sub-genres, though, has to be melodic hardcore. Most of the records we receive here coming under that mantle end up being nothing more than slightly beefed up pop-punk. Leadtheway, however, prove to be a breath of fresh air. They do exactly what they say on the tin and are one of the most promising melodic hardcore acts this country has produced in a while.
Leadtheway are a four-piece band that hail from Wakefield. This is their debut EP, ‘Born To Bear Their Burden’, that was released last year. The most confusing aspect of the release is that it claims to have five songs, but actually has nine – bargain! For a debut release this is certainly accomplished stuff. Sure, the production isn’t great, but you would expect that from a self-release anyway. The important thing is that the band have an identity, free from their influences, and that they know how to pen a decent song or two.
What is most refreshing about this band is that they actually have something to say, and aren’t afraid to throw politics into the mix. The songs consistently have something to comment on and even better than that – something intelligent and informed! From the opening blast of ‘Holy Shit’ it is apparent that the band have the musical intensity to match the wordplay. Vocals, bass, guitars and drums all complement themselves well. The standard on the EP is pretty high throughout. The likes of ‘A Chance To Redeem’, ‘Hiding Behind The Flag’ and the superb ‘The Way I Feel Tomorrow’ manage to showcase a number of sides to the band. They do heavy well, but they also do the intricate, guitar-led numbers and the catchy-as-fuck tracks to the same ability. The whole EP is rounded off in style with a jaw-droppingly good cover of ‘Whiskey In The Jar’ – its blows Metallica‘s version out of the water!
So Leadtheway are definitely a band to watch out for. They are a melodic hardcore band who manage to be brutal and accessible in equal parts. With a debut EP this good, their debut full length to be released next year should be something special.
www.leadtheway.co.uk
Mark