Album Review: War Orphan – Unite (Stay Gold Records)

On their second full length in two years, War Orphan focus on the positive. The band’s debut was a scathing political record meant to encapsulate the sentiment of the times and spark change. On Unite, War Orphan focus on positivity and personal change. The record is an encouragement to the listener to embark on a path of self-discovery and self-improvement. It will be released on February 17th, 2023, via Stay Gold Records.

Oozing positive vibes but filtered through the uncompromising sound of hardcore, War Orphan’s Unite is an empowering listen. While also encouraging you to jump headfirst into the nearest pit possible. After all, it is hardcore and that demands a certain level of commitment from the listener.

Commitment that is easy to give as the three-piece really get the blood-pumping with the likes of the fist-thumping YDI (You Do It), the defiant authenticity of Scabs, the blistering fierceness of Get Smart, the eye-watering Screaming for Change, and the exhausting Dead Legs.

While also delivering more elaborate head-bangers such as the anthemic War Dance, the slower-tempo heaviness of Cuffs, the tense and terse push of Perpetual Motion, and the groove monster that is Heavy Weighs the Crown. Tracks that stand out a little more for not sticking to the hardcore formula exclusively. While still being impressive showcases of the sound.

All with the constant positive message and urge to lift the listener up and help them grow, rather than beat them down. That is so lovable and comes through strongly in every single track. All capped off with the strong message of Guard Rails – a really honest appraisal of how people change.

War Orphan – Unite Track Listing:

1. YDI (You Do It)
2. War Dance
3. Cuffs
4. Scabs
5. Get Smart
6. Perpetual Motion
7. Heavy Weighs The Crown
8. Screaming For Change
9. Dead Legs
10. Guard Rails

Links

Bandcamp | Facebook