Music in Review: Sheer Cold
The winters in Vegas have a tendency to be fairly frigid. Even in the desert, temperatures can reach as low as thirty-two degrees and will just as quickly revert back to the sweltering atmosphere Vegas offers. Though winter comes and goes, the coldest entity remains stagnant year-round. I am referring to Las Vegas’ shivering up-and-coming Deathcore act ‘Sheer Cold.’
Formed in early 2020, Sheer Cold has so far made their presence known with 4 singles including a remaster of their debut release Cryogenic Revival. The band features current and ex-members of various local scene conglomerates including Implements of Hell, Vatican Falling, and A Perfect Being. Though the style of Deathcore can be fairly self-explanatory, the sound can be best compared to the likes of Thy Art is Murder, Carnifex, and Molotov Solution.
Co-production, mixing, and mastering was handled by Josh Bearden of Nevermore Recordings.
Cryogenic Revival – Re-master released October 6th 2020
Of the two versions of this track, we are going to focus on the latest remaster. The debut track is generally that first taste of what the band has to offer and in this case the band shows they are capable of not only delivering a heavy beatdown but creating a chilling atmosphere to accompany starting with a somber clean intro. Each element is well accentuated with a powerful mix. Drums carry the energy of the guitars and bass with each pummeling concussive hit while they themselves boast a crushing tone presence. To the preferential ear perhaps the bass could come up just a bit but that’s subjective criticism at best. Vocals sit atop the instrumentation as per the general practice and gives a clear representation of Preston’s vocal performance. Comparative to the previous version, the mix remains virtually the same sans a little more polish in the low end. Musically, for an introductory emergence, it’s a good start. One I would give an 8/10.
Hypothermic Hallucinations – Released June 6th 2020
Hypothermic stands out in it’s own way. Though featuring similar rhythm elements as Cryogenic, such as another clean intro, the track boasts more expertly articulated lead work best exemplified at the 1:37 mark where the listener is met with a tapping lead over the chunky rhythm section then shortly followed by a guitar solo. Vocal performance meets a good standard hitting a solid range of lows and highs, though some lyrical moments leave something to be desired. The only differing quality in terms of the mix is a more tangible high end (mostly accentuated through the cymbals) as well as the bass coming through just a bit more. Drums still punch through and carry the intensity and the guitars are still crunchy tonally. I’d go as far as to give Hypothermic an 8.5/10 as one can already see an improvement on arrangements.
Destruction of Rayquaza – Released March 17th 2021
The most recent release in the band’s catalog and honestly yet another improvement upon previous works. As the name should suggest, the band makes a tangible nod to a nostalgic favorite. If you’re a fan of Pokemon you’re aware of Rayquaza’s elegant existence. My personal favorite legendary back in my Emerald days so I will admit there’s a hint of a bias on this one. On top of that I’m a sucker for a Black Metal-esque atmosphere, a nice change in direction compared to the primarily chug/lead formula. Though less of a focus on lead work, there’s plenty in the way of catchiness brought by groove riffs and a blackened melody all tied together with an ass beater of an ending breakdown. There’s something about breakdowns that actually groove that especially get the blood pumping. A good effort overall. For me I’d give Destruction of Rayquaza a 9/10.
Though it’s still early to tell where the band is ultimately headed, Sheer Cold has plenty of potential to make a name for themselves even in an albeit saturated crowd, but that of course lies in the band’s determination and creative edge to stand out. Thus the anticipation for what the future holds begins to develop.
Be sure to give a like and a follow to the band’s social media and as always: support the scene!!!
