SINGLE REVIEW: Blockade - Mess You Made
Blockade is an up and coming rock band formed in London 2022. Their members consist of vocalist Olly Davies, guitarist Jack Messer, bassist Luke McCormick and drummer Jack Reynolds.
Blockade strives to create an eclectic mix of music that blends together influences from Lower Than Atlantis, Don Broco, Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes, Silverstein, Royal Blood and more to bring an energy and excitement to their performances that is unparalleled.
“Mess You Made” is the ideal debut single to be released to create a headstrong and inspiring impression on listeners and fans. The track is undeniably forceful and is truly a statement that the industry is not ready for Blackade. Raw energy and emotion indeed.
I found myself really pumped to listen. It wasn’t once or twice but an immeasurable amount of repeated plays of this track to really dig deep and examine and pull apart this single. I can guarantee this is going to be a favourite of any metal/hardrock fan.
The songwriting is cleverly composed, opening with chorus guitars and synth to set quite a foreboding mood before emerging with thick sonorous bass riff and distorted unyielding lead guitar riffs. I struggle a lot to define drums and percussion but they are monumental and robust. The vocals are the crown jewel in this track, clear, powerful with a weathered country-rock style that shows such control and conviction with sharp lyrics.
The production quality is so clean, grand and booming with life. Again, i'm not so clued up with the formalities in this area, but It’s the little things that really make it, such as the telephone effects in the vocals to create pause for anticipation and the satisfying panning on the “ahh” that seduces the listener along with the bass that sonically travels from ear to ear is such a satisfying feeling.
The entire track ebbs and flows so well, and by the final chorus we are brought to hefty build up and a pretty sweet breakdown! Wow! It just hits right and is bound to open a pit!
I must also comment on the lyrics, these are some deep seated and personal words and are bound to resonate with anyone. It explores the hardships and pressures of life and wanting to give up, however, faced with promise, there is tenacious willpower to keep going and not give up and that is something that a consumer will always need to hear from any walk of life.
I believe that Blackade is going to make an influential impact on the music scene, evident with the approach of this brilliant single. I do hope to hear and see more of this band.
