Enforced fill in the gap with A Leap Into The Dark, a six track EP that serves to tide fans still suffering whiplash from the band’s 2023 sophomore release, War Remains. The Virginia quintet get to business on opening salvo, “Betting On The End.” The band’s signature staccato riffing begins the track and Alex Bishop’s drumming kicks things in to full throttle. The track transitions from fast to mid-tempos, showcasing the band’s cohesion and rhythmic fluidity. The title track starts with a lumbering groove before going full speed. There is an interesting ultra fast d-beat that sounds like Discharge on speed! It honestly sounds like a car speeding down a hilly corridor about to crash in to a building at any moment. Of course, Enforced never veer too far and conclude the track as it began, with a slow grooving breakdown. “Deafening Heartbeats” does not give the listener time to breathe as it attacks from the beginning. Slayer’s influence is readily apparent on this track, both due to its speed and the Kerry King-esque riffs on this track. Oh and the closing breakdown which is eerily reminiscent of “Raining Blood.” Nothing wrong with copying the legends though. The band originally released “Casket” in 2021, but it is remastered on Leap and has not one bit of its ferocity. The short track wades in to hardcore/crossover territory with its manic drumming and relentless riffing, while Knox Colby screams like a demon that stepped on a rusty nail. “Deadly Intentions” is the first of two cover songs on Leap. Obituary originally recorded this song on its seminal 1989 debut, Slowly We Rot. The swampy guitar tone and trudging tempo is nearly gone, as Enforced puts its own stamp on it. However, Knox does channel a bit of John Tardy in his vocals. The band concludes things with a cover the English Dogs track, “The Chase Is On.” It showcases the band’s punk rock influence and is a fitting end to this mini-release.
A Leap Into The Dark shows Enforced refining its musical chops as the new tracks do not sound like throwaways from the War Remains recording sessions. The band’s fusion of hardcore, thrash and death metal is less choppy, which makes for smoother transitions and song ideas. Guitarists Will Wagstaff and Zach Monahan unleash some sick guitar riffs and leads that range from chaotic to technical. The production is just fine, as all the instruments are audible even during the heaviest parts on Leap.
I will reiterate my previous statement that A Leap Into The Dark will tide fans over until the band’s next release. This EP serves as a nice addendum to War Remains and shows the band’s progress. This is a great short release for fans of thrash, hardcore, death metal and everything in between. Go on and take a leap into the dark. You will land right in to a circle pit.
Check out the band’s Facebook page for news and tourdates: https://www.facebook.com/enforcedrva/
