EP Review: Chiaroscuro – Chiaroscuro (Unholy Anarchy Records)

Melodic death band Chiaroscuro is set to unleash their self-titled debut EP on March 28th, 2025, via Unholy Anarchy Records.

We can never have too much melodic death metal, but to stand out in that genre these days, there needs to be some invention, even if a traditional sound is delivered in impressive style. Which, in the case of Chiaroscuro’s debut EP is what we get, and then some.

A four-track explosive showcase of brutish intensity that will leave you banging your head as hard as possible. From the moment it begins with Sunbeat, it’s clear that the EP sits on the heavier side of the melodic death metal camp, thrashy in places, and focused on beating the listener down with scorching riffs, manic soloing, and shrieking vocals.

It also sets a high bar, one that Hekatomb of Malevolence doesn’t quite surpass, but certainly meets with just as much brutalising intensity.

If the neck muscles are starting to ache at this stage, it’s understandable, Chiaroscuro are relentless. Hitting another manic and heavy high with Unbridled Darkness, which has the EP’s most extravagant and extreme sounding guitar solo. Before crashing and smashing with a delightful amount of manic force with the final track, A Song for Ghosts.

They have arrived, and it’s going to be very interesting to see how their sound develops over time, especially when they’re delivering quality like this already.

Chiaroscuro – Chiaroscuro Track Listing:

1. Sunbeat
2. Hekatomb of Malevolence
3. Unbridled Darkness
4. A Song for Ghosts

Links

Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram | Unholy Anarchy Records