Cultivating their brand of modern nu metal since 2017’s Freak, Tetrarch really seemed to be on the right path with their last album, 2021’s Unstable. Bringing in elements to nu metal to modernize it and truly make it their own sound, The Ugly Side of Me is the next logical step for the act. Their third full-length capitalizes on the band’s previous strengths and bolsters them in ways that allow them to really shine track-by-track. It’s full of massive hooks as well as potent grooves that the listener can truly sink themselves into and enjoy.
The piece that Tetrarch really grasps that catapults them above other acts in the modern metal spectrum is how they are able to take those old nu metal influences and find a way to retain their accessibility, all the while making it a heavy enough effort that more ‘traditional’ metal fans are going to have a hard time faulting it. “Cold” is a good example of these working parts in balance. The chorus instantly takes residence in your head with it’s thick hooks. Guitarist Diamond Rowe executes a playful yet intricate guitar solo later on, supplementing the song’s fully capable groove rhythms and driving riffs led by both Rowe and vocalist/guitarist Josh Fore. “Live Not Fantasize” also employs a hooks-first approach, merging both the catchy riffage with more compelling vocal hooks throughout, in addition to interesting electronic injections. Rowe once again delivers on this song with a big melodic solo, and the emphasis on them this time around does the band well in providing some flash that could aid in drawing in some fans due to her ability to make them technically impressive while keeping them grounded for the average listener.
Other songs like “Erase” really elevate the vocals, digging up those nu roots. This cut is probably one of the catchiest of the bunch, with an almost perpetual onslaught of ear-worming melodies in both the verses and chorus that are going to keep you singing along while the grooves get your fists pumping. The closing title track is also another worthy hook contender, with a flurry of guitar melodies doing a great job of setting the opening tempo and then Fore’s vocal performance on the soaring chorus make for an unforgettable finale. Rowe also adds some vocal parts in the track (and others), and the occasional duo makes the tracks a bit more special [see also “Never Again (Parasite)”].
The most important piece of The Ugly Side of Me is just how fun and enjoyable it is as a complete listen. It emphasizes memorability and energetic hooks from beginning to end, with each track fighting for ‘best song’ position each time you listen. Tetrarch are really on the top of their game here, it’s clear they really put their heart and soul into this collection of songs, and anyone remotely interested in hearing it is going to have a fantastic time.