Literally a case of being a brand new band, Undying Words only formed on December 13, 2024. The Japanese band released their first single, “Soukoku ni Saku” was released that same day. Fast track to now, and the band has already released their first EP, Raven in the Abyss, a 5 song introduction to an act that already seems to be one that is going to generate some hype in the international waters. Undying Words has a modern and innovative sound that modern metal fans should be instantly drawn to.
Much like some of the more fascinating acts coming out of Japan currently, it’s hard to really put a pin in what Undying Words is doing. While the modern metal classification works, there’s bits of metalcore, groove metal, power metal, melodic death metal, and sprinklings of stadium rock and jpop all await the listener on these five songs. It’s an addictive combination of influences that meld into something that feels fresh, visceral, and melodic. “Soukoku ni Saku,” as the first taste as single and lead-off track, launches with some heavy grooves and electronic augmentation. Vocalist Kasumi wastes no time in showcasing her prowess, from sultry croons to soaring power metal influenced falsetto to snarling growls as the track barrels along with just as many musical switch ups. The guitar melodies from Eita frequently earworm, and the massive grooves hit with plenty of power and are aided by Aya’s rumbling bass. Said basswork reaches out and provides not only support but takes moments of the spotlight as well.
The rest of the EP is equally strong. “Syurabasara” slides with graceful guitar melodies and it attracts a more power metal vibe at times, with upbeat tempos and hook-driven vocal lines, until a literal gunshot drives it into groove territory and an electronic buildup. “Dawn Rebels” might be the current favorite for this scribe, with it’s elegant guitar melodies inserted into a frantic melodeath formatting, diving into thrashing tempos before a more gentle chorus that serves to later escalate things by the drum battery from Kano. The melodies are incredibly playful in this track, and it’s headbangable breakdown later gives it some added dynamics, as well as a standout solo. “Bad Trip” simultaneously provides some of the most electronically boosted and heaviest moments on the EP. There’s a lot of swirling melodies, and the grooves are intense as the song progresses. Final cut “UNDYiNG” slows the tempo a bit to give the melodies even more room to bask in the light. Kasumi absolutely soars on this track, particularly in the chorus, as the riffs provide one final thrill.
Undying Words comes out and solidifies themselves as an act to keep your eye on with Raven in the Abyss. The genre-blurring keeps the music consistently entertaining and attention-grabbing while still being coherent. The musicianship and vocals are top notch and bound to stick with you after one listen. In other words, there’s a lot to appreciate. It’s fun, ear-grabbing, and tosses in just enough heaviness. There’s a ton of promise as Undying Words moves ahead with more material, and this 5-song EP is a perfect introduction to what they are capable of.