AtaxicCrux - Bleeding Hearts

AtaxicCrux

​Bleeding Hearts
self-released; 2018

​3.5 out of 5

By Jamie Funk

AtaxicCrux was formed in Edmonton, Alberta in 2017 and already managed to release an EP entitled Bleeding Hearts. The music and lyrics were created by the duo Bryce Mertler and Vanessa Pierce. Although It was easy to hear they are in the embryonic stage of their development there were some inspired moments as well as areas that can be improved.

​Their music aligns with a dark, industrial alternative vibe as well as a more straight metal vibe at times. Bands like NIN, Ministry and even Evanescence came to mind.

Up first is “The End” which starts with synths and light drums which gets instantly overpowered by distorted guitar and vocals. The song has a classic goth feel to it from pain ridden lyrics that sounded similar to my high school journal as well as the tones and textures. The song has some inspired moments but wanted hoping for some more dyanmics.

Up next is “Facing Sin” which is a pretty straight industrial song in line with early NIN and Ministry. The song felt a bit long at over eight minutes however the vocals were well delivered. Up next is “Voiceless” which is a slightly experimental goth fueled song while “Torn Heart” has a bit of a David Lynch-esque vibe. They close with the dark yet accessible “The Beginning.”

The production and recording quality will have to improve if they want to compete with some of the aforementioned bands. The drums were in need of being more powerful and driving the energy more but in general there are plenty of things they can be done in this area. I would encourage the band to consider working with an engineer or producer who has some experience in this genre. I think a significant boost in the production is one of the first things they should attend to if they have another release.

Overall there were some solid ideas and good performances but the duo is a case of wait and see for the time being. I hope to hear their evolution in the not too distant future.

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