EP Review: The Higher Line – Antithetic (Self Released)

Carl Fisher 2 min read

Hailing from South-East London’s pot-holed suburbs, The Higher Line is a new, though Covid-delayed outfit who, in the Autumn of 2020, and inspired by a long-standing interest in miserable American post-hardcore, Midwest emo and noise rock bands, set plectrums to strings to write a debut 4 song EP; ‘Antithetic’.

The EP was released on March 24th, 2023.

 

By showcasing their passion, adding off-kilter tones, and featuring moody vibes throughout, The Higher Line make a good impression on this debut EP. An enigmatic style that focuses on tone over anything else, the four tracks offer a window into the minds of The Higher Line. One that is still a bit frosted come the end, but the picture is a whole lot clearer.

 

 

Beginning in discombobulating fashion, Synapsis’ riff and bass combo is unusual, but interesting. The latter absolutely hums, and the whole things is complimented by robust drumming and vocals that yelp and bark. It’s got strong noise-rock vibes but with a much more pleasing rhythmic structure overall.

Then there is A Different Version of Events, and again, that freaking bass. It’s got a life of its own and really helps turn this moody effort into something far less abrasive. Although the vocals and how they are delivered here also deserves a mention.

Continuing to showcase their eccentricities, How Does it End? has some of the EP’s most experimental guitar sounds. Resulting in an addictive listen, even if it also has tension running through it like a thick vein.

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Before The Silk Cut wraps up this intriguing debut with a nice bass/guitar groove and spoken word segments. Transforming into something much more intense and noisy as it goes on, resulting in an infectious tone overall. Maybe the best track of the four but there’s very little to complain about at any stage and ensuring The Higher Line are a band worth keeping an eye on.

The Higher Line – Antithetic Track Listing:

1. Synapsis
2. A Different Version of Events
3. How Does it End?
4. The Silk Cut




Links

Bandcamp | Instagram

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The Higher Line - Antithetic (Self Released)
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