Set Apart, from Hertfordshire, UK, are a hardcore hand that
have been together since 2009. I saw Set Apart play an all dayer in March this
year, at one of their early shows. I was impressed with what I heard and saw
considering how new they were at the time and there was a positive reaction
from the crowd too, which was promising. I listened to their old demo (a rough
recording), and recently Kyle from Set Apart sent me a copy of their new EP released this year. The new mixes of songs are much better quality, this band
have improved and come far in a short space of time. They have dropped some of
their melodic sound and adapted a hardcore sound very prevalent in the UK scene
currently.
First impressions of the newest recordings are that the sound is a
lot heavier than their older material. Although there are a lot bands that have
taken this heavy hardcore style in their stride, for example Breaking Point and
Broken Teeth, I am sure that Set Apart will do well in the future and will
stand out with their powerfully written tracks. Set Apart deliver moshing
hardcore with a slight melodic twist, which works really well together. I love
the energy and hard riffs alongside the steady rhythmic drum beats, even if it
is at times a little predictable. Although they do not separate themselves from
the current UK hardcore sound at the moment, they still play heavy, enjoyable
and entertaining music.
The EP kicks off with groovy, catchy instrumental that makes you want to bang your head. Instant
heavy guitar riffs and drum beats merge
with overlapping sharp guitar sounds and
followed out nicely with a low melody. I particularly like the track Breaking Free, reminiscent of Dirty Money, with the memorable tunes and shrill vocals. There’s a nicely placed
build up incorporating harsh gruff vocals, blasting into a small breakdown.
Another track that I like is Hopeless
which includes fast paced guitaring and a medley of varied vocal parts,
eventually breaking out into a stomping section.
Overall, it’s a pretty decent EP and if you’re into the
current UK hardcore sound, in the vein of Bays and Deal With It, then this band
will be for you. Set Apart has worked hard at this and definitely deserves as
much support as they can get. UK hardcore is still on the up rise so make sure
you buy this EP here and catch them at a show soon if you can!
I will also
have an interview coming soon with the band, so stay tuned...
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