Album Review: Rising Insane – Afterglow (Long Branch Records)

German metalcore quintet Rising Insane return with their third album Afterglow, due for release on 10th December 2021 via Long Branch Records. With tracks centred around abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, Afterglow deals with some of the most common but difficult problems the brain has to deal with.

For all the complaining we hear about the over-saturation of the metalcore market, it has to be said that the current crop of bands that ply their trade in this genre are absolutely killing it. Case in point – Rising Insane and their blisteringly brilliant new album, Afterglow. A metalcore heavyweight band that you can set your watch too, such is the reliability of their sound.

Afterglow is a triumphant release that oozes passion and has so much heart to it. As authentic sounding as you’re going to hear all year, the emotional impact is complimented by their ability to be crushingly savage.

From the energetic, earnest, and ferocious opening title track. To the anthemic intensity of Meant Live and the beastly blend of stompy heaviness with soaring choruses of War. The first quarter of this album delivers metalcore brilliance.

Chances are you’ll be sold already but there is so much more to come and it’s just as brilliant.

Vivid. That’s a word that comes to mind as Flightless Bird, Serenade and Oxygen take us up to the halfway point with a collection of powerful, imposing and depth-filled tunes. Some lighter than others but all equally impactful.

More. You’ll just want more.

Rising Insane have already delivered a masterclass in modern metalcore and been openly honest about mental health issues. Stuff that everyone can relate to in some way or another and it’s that connection that continues to pull you in as the album enters its second half.

Although the bouncy and raging noise they craft with Breakout can certainly be enjoyed without too much cerebral effort. As can the wild frenzy that is The Surface and the glorious anthemic pit-creator that is Something Inside of Me. It’s just brilliant stuff and easily one of the best metalcore releases of 2021.

…but we’re not quite done yet. Can Rising Insane stick the landing?

Of course, they bloody do. Broken Homes, Bend and Break, and Imprisoned; the final three tracks keep things hot, heavy, melodic and so damn affecting. The blend of ferocious power and melodic excellence can’t be overstated. Rising Insane have proven without a shadow of a doubt that modern metalcore can still thrill when it’s done this well.

Rising Insane – Afterglow Full Track Listing:

1. Afterglow
2. Meant to Live
3. War
4. Flightless Bird
5. Serenade
6. Oxygen
7. Breakout
8. The Surface
9. Something Inside of Me
10. Broken Homes
11. Bend and Break
12. Imprisoned

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