CRYSTAL LAKE - Helix LP

Label: Cube Records

If you’re a metalcore fan and you’ve been paying attention over the last few years, Crystal Lake is probably a name that you’re familiar with. The Japanese heavyweights have been carving up quite the reputation for themselves, getting better with every release and packing an impressive punch when performing live.

‘Helix’ is a fierce white knuckle ride of a record. The flow is flawless, transitioning from disgustingly heavy breakdowns to soaring beautiful melodies with style and finesse. The production is insanely good, too; every snare hit is powerful enough to rattle your ribcage, the guitar and bass are larger than Godzilla, and the vocals are as clear as glass.

If you were on the fence with these guys, unsure whether they were a flash in the pan or destined for greatness, this record cements that they sit in the latter category. Crystal Lake have elevated themselves to stand amongst the giants of the genre. Metalcore is not dead, and these guys are one of the main reasons that it’s surviving.