Taipei Metal

Review: Assault - The Exceptions of the Rebellions

Did I miss the Scandinavian invasion of Singapore? Is one of the last few city states in the world now known more for its top-three finishes at elite level hockey tournaments and Nordic event dominance at the Olympics than it is for its vaunted multiculturalism and clean streets? If not, how else could you explain a band like Singapore’s Assault pulling off the melodic death metal sound, forged by the likes of Swedish luminaries such as At the Gates, In Flames, and Dark Tranquility so well?

Assault has well and truly arrived with its first EP, The Exceptions of the Rebellions, a four track effort many years in the making. Featuring great production, not just for an indie release, but genuinely clear, powerful production, blackened, clearly enunciated vocals, and Euro inspired riffs and tone, the mini album kicks off with “Subversion.” The track features the patented harmonized guitar attack during the verse, heavily inspired by the many European melodeath acts that have come before. It’s both catchy and dramatic, with soaring hammer on and pull of solos over a straight ahead, driving hard rock/metal beat.

“War on Humanity” follows with its typically Scandinavian gallop, with the vocals delving deeper into the low end this time, but staying in the mids for the most part. The sound and vocal attack reminds of the Viking metal stylings of Amon Amarth, with great melodic sensibilities. If there were any geographical barriers in metal to begin with, they’ve long since fell, and Assault is flag bearing proof positive.

The next track, “Rebellions Retribution,” again shows off Assault’s flair for the dramatic, with an intro solo that rises high in the mix before falling away seamlessly into the main riff before all melodic hell breaks loose. They lyrics are thoughtful, with nary a throwaway line to be heard.

Bringing things to a close is a song that has “fan favorite” etched into all sides, “Fall of Obscurity.” The structure is carefully orchestrated, with great guitar prowess and that familiar Euro gallop that brings to mind hordes of remorseless warriors and music that speaks of battle and triumph over demons both real and metaphorical. The string bending solo is an indication of just how far Assault is able to push their virtuosity, just as this EP is a testament to the tantalizing potential of yet another promising band from the Lion City metal scene.