Arthame Melt The Competition With ‘Toxic Acid’ EP

Arthame, a dynamic four-piece rock band, skilfully intertwines the raw intensity of heavier rock with infectious pop hooks and subtle electronic flourishes.

Arthame – Toxic Acid EP

Their debut EP, ‘Toxic Acid’, showcases their adeptness at crafting a sound that bridges diverse musical realms. This appeals to both seasoned genre enthusiasts and a broader audience alike. Each track on the EP stands as a testament to their versatility and creativity, offering a unique sonic journey while maintaining a cohesive identity that is unmistakably Arthame.

Originating from the heart of England’s Midlands in 2023, Arthame swiftly emerged as a formidable force in their local music scenes. The band’s cohesive energy is intense, with each member contributing their unique flair while fostering a strong sense of camaraderie through collaborative songwriting. Louise Emma demands attention with her commanding vocals and poignant lyricism, complemented by the deep, rhythmic bass lines of Ellie (Shubie). Stuart Lee anchors the rhythm section with precision and vigour on the drums, while guitarist and producer Kurt Force showcases his brilliance and innovation in every recording and riff written.

Their debut single, ‘Set This Off’, marked the beginning of a musical odyssey reminiscent of iconic acts like Black Veil Brides, Bring Me The Horizon, and Blink-182. With a sound that resonates with both depth and energy, Arthame is poised for a journey marked by longevity and resonance in the contemporary music landscape.

Track One – Toxic Acid

‘Toxic Acid’ kicks off its eponymous three-track EP with an electrifying energy that sets the tone for an exhilarating sonic journey. From the get-go, the track wastes no time in immersing listeners into a world of pulsating guitars, dynamic drumbeats, and the commanding vocals of Louise Emma. Her ability to seamlessly transition between crystal-clear singing and raw screams adds layers of depth and intensity to the music.

Thematically, ‘Toxic Acid’ serves as a rallying cry, urging listeners to roll up their sleeves and fight for what they believe in. The lyrics pulsate with a sense of urgency, urging listeners to push through adversity and persevere. Lines like “slaving away like a priest at confession” demonstrate the band’s knack for crafting vivid imagery, drawing listeners into their narrative. The verses are a testament to the band’s lyrical prowess, utilizing inventive wordplay and assonant half-rhymes to create a captivating lyrical landscape. These elements lend the track an almost conversational quality, inviting listeners to engage with the message on a deeper level.

As the song progresses, Arthame leads the charge in the choruses, unleashing a barrage of high-energy riffs and infectious melodies. The pristine production quality gives the recording a raw, live feel, capturing the essence of a performance that demands to be experienced first-hand.

Track Two – Mad You Got Caught

‘Mad You Got Caught’ thrusts Arthame’s sound into the forefront of the classic noughties pop-punk genre, evoking memories of early Fall Out Boy and Panic! At The Disco. The track is a masterclass in melding melodic lead vocals with intricate instrumentation, reminiscent of a bygone era where the emotional resonance of the lyrics dictates the musicality.

Lyrically, ‘Mad You Got Caught’ feels like eavesdropping on a heated confrontation between the guilty party and their accuser. There’s a strong sense of relief as the lyrics lay bare the emotions swirling beneath the surface. It’s as if the song is the culmination of a long-overdue conversation, where courage has finally been mustered to speak up. Interspersed within are moments that read like raw diary entries, with lines like “stuck to the pages, could never escape this” adding a poignant layer of introspection. The climax of the song comes with the middle 8, where Louise Emma directly addresses and screams out to the guilty party, unleashing a torrent of pent-up frustration and anger. It’s a visceral moment that serves as the emotional apex of the track.

Musically, ‘Mad You Got Caught’ tugs at the heartstrings with its nostalgic arrangement, characterized by suspended chords that leave an unsettling feeling lingering in the air. The story unfolds against a backdrop of intense and flawless drum fills, complemented by fast-paced bass lines and distorted guitar riffs that maintain a relentless pace. Every aspect of the arrangement mirrors the anguish of the vocals, creating a sonic landscape that is as immersive as it is evocative.

Track Three – Desire

“Desire,” the closing track on the “Toxic Acid” EP, marks a departure for Arthame as they seamlessly incorporate electronic elements into their signature sound right from the outset. The track opens with a softer vocal delivery and minimal instrumentation, setting a contemplative tone that gradually builds in intensity as it progresses.

As the song unfolds, a second vocal emerges, signalling a shift towards a more aggressive sonic landscape. The line “pull the trigger and run” serves as a poignant catalyst for the track’s climactic moments, injecting a sense of urgency and tension into the narrative. Throughout “Desire,” the interplay between the two vocalists adds depth and dimension to the storytelling, with each line delivered with a raw intensity that resonates with the listener. Meanwhile, the instrumentation, punctuated by heavier guitar lines, pulsating bass performances and driving drums, serves to amplify the emotional weight of the lyrics, maintaining a relentless energy that propels the song forward.

In a masterful stroke, the reappearance of the opening synth arpeggios provides a moment of respite, allowing listeners to catch their breath before being plunged back into the fray. This back and forth of emotions mirrors the ebb and flow of desire itself, creating a dynamic listening experience that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

“Arthame’s ‘Toxic Acid’ EP is a dynamic fusion of ferocious instrumentals and poignant lyricism, leaving an indelible impression that begs to be experienced live.”

Overall, the Toxic Acid EP is a tour de force that showcases Arthame’s ability to blend ferocious instrumentals with poignant lyricism. With its irresistible dancing energy and thought-provoking themes, this track leaves an indelible impression that lingers long after the final note fades away and begs to be seen in a live setting.

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Words Rachel Colton