Escape the Box - ‘Smoke’ review
2023 was massive for London band Escape the Box with a pair of banging singles and a load of media buzz. Coming into 2024, they kicked the year off by dropping their new single 'Smoke', out now. Here's what we thought:
Instrumentally, 'Smoke' is an exciting new addition to the band's discography. The use of samples to open is a tried and tested method, and slowly introduces Aaron Maullin on guitar before the rest of the track drops in. Some beefy drop tuning makes for a Caskets to Bad Omens vibe but with some old-school metalcore. Escape the Box enjoys being a multifaceted group, and this leans to the heavier side of their material. Some impressive mixing on the track does well to show off different strengths in 'Smoke'. The bass in particular thumps underneath the rest of the track, combining well with LouZy Hero's on-point drumming.
The metalcore scene is a tough one to crack in the UK. 'Smoke' showcases the band's dedication and hard work. Vocalist Ziey Kizzy recently shared the chorus to fans on Instagram to great praise. But Zeiy confirmed to us that the process of creating 'Smoke' came along very quickly. In Ziey's case, the vocal performance has a lot of polish. There's a very satisfying mix of harsh to clean vocals, which create some excellent layers when played over one another. The track has a very good master and production, even modulating and editing the vocals in the studio. Ziey confirmed that the process for the song took place over only a few days. This is a very tight 2:40 track.
'Smoke' is a must-listen for DIY band fans. It offers a hard-hitting and captivating musical experience. It’s surprising and exciting Escape the Box made this short turnaround off their own backs. Ziey personally hinted at some major projects in 2024.
Escape the Box recorded 'Smoke' in the independent studio, ETB Audio Visual, run by Ziey which opened in August.
‘Smoke’ from Escape the Box is out now and available on all good streaming platforms.