Album Review: Graphic Nature – A Mind Waiting To Die (Rude Records)

Kent, UK metal band Graphic Nature explore the subject of mental health in unflinching detail on their debut album, A Mind Waiting To Die. Out on February 17th, 2023, via Rude Records.

Highly anticipated, the debut album from nu-metal/hardcore-crossover heavy band, Graphic Nature, finds the band spitting and snarling with a level of truth and honesty that is daring and exciting. The blend of modern mayhem and old-school nu-vibes makes for an intense experience and one run through the entire album makes it clear just why their music is resonating with so many people.

There’s no shortage of heavy bands willing to open up about their experiences with mental health and, while each delivers their own individual experience, few sound as raw and raucous as Graphic Nature’s delivery. An open book of the pain and challenges that come with mental health issues.

It’s this level of honesty, unwavering honesty, that deepens the connection. Yet, it’s not exclusively an album for those who can relate to what Graphic Nature have experienced. Even if your journey is different, the conversation is being had here and that’s something most can enjoy and relate to.

Expressed in a way that can thrill, intrigue, and polarise, Graphic Nature’s amalgamation of musical styles is certainly memorable. Their wild and mayhem inducing heavy antics are combined with nu-metal groove and abrasive electronica to create a monstrosity of demonic sounds. The constant mania, brutal breakdowns, and raw hardcore-infused power is what makes A Mind Waiting to Die such a standout debut release.

Where the polarising aspects come into play is with some of the nu-metal twists and electronica-led turns. Elements that are carefully and cleverly layered into the overall intensity of Graphic Nature’s metal sound but can be coarse to the ear when showcased. This is an aspect that really will come down to the individual, whereas Graphic Nature’s overall carnage creating speed and heaviness is something every metal fan can enjoy.

A Mind Waiting to Die lives up to the hype but more than that, it’s an honest evaluation of personal mental health experiences and the ever-growing conversation surrounding the stupidity of the subject once being taboo. Graphic Nature are willing to talk and listen if you feel ready for it.

Graphic Nature – A Mind Waiting to Die Track Listing:

1. 404
2. Sour
3. Into The Dark
4. Killing Floor
5. Sleepless
6. White Noise
7. 90
8. Bad Blood
9. Twisted Fear
10. Headstone
11. Death Wish
12. A Twin
13. The Downpour

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