EP Review: Mallavora – Echoes (Marshall Records)

Bristolian alt-metal act Mallavora will release their brand-new album, ‘Echoes’ on November 20th, 2024, via Marshall Records. An EP that explores chronic illness, neurodiversity, and identity, blending shades of rock, alt-metal, and vocalist Jessica Douek’s Middle Eastern roots.

Cathartic and inclusive, there’s so much to Mallavora and so much to unpack with this EP that, chances are, we could still be talking about the four tracks on offer in a year’s time. That’s now impactful the music is and that is how important what Mallavora are doing is here. A band that genuinely feels like they can make a difference when it comes to inclusivity within the music industry and making those who feel forgotten about, heard.

Change doesn’t happen overnight, and Mallavora are part of a new breed of bands working to change perceptions through a more thoughtful approach to music, while finding interesting ways to challenge expectations around specific genres. Sure, they fall into the alternative category, but mainly because they don’t fit anywhere else. Chances are, that’s exactly how they like it too and the evidence of this genre-blending is blatant from the start with the powerful It’s Not Enough. A track that has infectious elements and oozes moodiness, but also has emotion that gets under the skin and features bursts of heavier moments.

It’s a fantastic start, but Skin is something else, especially when it comes to intensity. The vocal performances on this track are stunning and the subtle Middle Eastern aspects that cropped up in the opener are on sharper display here. Not just the best track on the EP, but one of the best tracks heard this year.

Vultures doesn’t have quite the same impact, but it still leaves one hell of a mark as Mallavora go from feral passionate outbursts of satisfying chaos to dreamy melody and haunting catchiness. Before this unforgettable EP wraps up with the title track, which simply soars. Don’t be surprised if a tear or two is shed with this beautiful closing piece of music.

Wow. What a stunning release. I just want to tell everyone about it, and you will too.

Mallavora – Echoes Track Listing:

1. It’s Not Enough
2. Skin
3. Vultures
4. Echoes

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