Review: Benjamin Coe
Self-described “sass-core” specialists, SeeYouSpaceCowboy never fail to deliver. Whether it’s their chaotic math-metal inspired riffage or the catchy as hell hooks that they’re so adept at writing, one thing is for sure and that is that this Californian quintet continue to unleash aural sensations beyond their years.
Coup de Grace begins with the pleasant, lounge-y saxophone riffage of Allow Us To Set The Scene, bolstered by the sultry vocals of guest singer iRiS.EXE (who also appears on the later bridging track Respite For A Tragic Tale) before cascading into mayhem with frontwoman Connie Sgarbossa screeching maniacally over the jagged guitar work of her younger brother Ethan Sgarbossa and his rhythm guitar counterpart Timmy Moreno.
What follows will transport you back in time to the early 2000’s hardcore scene, with Subtle Whispers To Take Your Breath Away sporting an energetic and instantly catchy riff that will have you at the very least banging your head in unison. The vocal trade off between the Sgarbossa siblings is something to behold and continues fluently on And The Two Slipped Into The Shadows and hit single Red Wine & Discontent.
With their roots firmly planted in the aforementioned 2000’s hardcore scene, the band still bring new life to the long-forgotten genre with Connie’s signature screech and pained screams adding a vitality to the punk sensibility of her backing vocalists. Coup de Grace catapults SeeYouSpaceCowboy “sass-core” to a genuine contender for one of the best hardcore punk bands going.
The groove-laden, bass heavy sounds of Lubricant Like Kersosene features a sweet guest spot from alt. metal favourites Kim Dracula and sports a riff that will have you up and dancing in no time. Another notable guest appearance is that of super heavyweight performer Courtney LePlante of metal monsters Spiritbox on the punishing single, To The Dance Floor For Shelter. LePlante’s guttural roars expertly complementing the high-pitched squeals of Connie Sgarbossa.
All in all, this is a killer release from a killer young band and if SeeYouSpaceCowboy are not on your radar yet, rest assured, they will be soon!
SeeYouSpaceCowboy Coup de Grâce is out April 19 via Pure Noise Records
Pre-order Coup de Grâce here
