EP Review: Enforced – A Leap Into The Dark (Century Media Records)

Known for their intense hardcore thrash sound, Enforced build on the momentum of their previous full-lengths War Remains (2023) and Kill-Grid (2021) with their new release, the ‘A Leap Into The Dark’ EP. It will be released on October 25th, 2024, via Century Media Records.

There’s a couple of notable things about this release, the most obvious being that three of the six tracks are brand new. It’s those that will be most people’s focus and Enforced bring the appealing thrash and hardcore heaviness with them. First, crushing heads and breaking bones with Betting on the End. Then, taking a more measured approach to head banging intensity with the title track. Before an old-school thrash approach with a focus on being noisy as hell makes Deafening Heartbeats another enjoyable hit of heaviness.

Originally recorded during the band’s ‘Kill Grid’ sessions, Casket is a short slice of uncompromising savagery. Enforced going as hard and heavy as possible in manic fashion.

Then, to wrap up the EP, it’s two covers. One of which is notably more unique than the other. Enforced covering Obituary isn’t too much of a surprise, nor is it particularly interesting, even if they do a great job of making Deadly Intentions even more intense. However, Enforced covering the hardcore punk English Dogs is interesting and they breathe new life into The Chase is On. For many, this might be their first experience of the band so Enforced’s cover of it had to be good, which it is.

It’s a good EP overall. Three original bangers, one remastered hefty hit, and two cool covers. That’s a mightily fine release.

Enforced – A Leap into the Dark Track Listing:

1. Betting on the End
2. A Leap into the Dark
3. Deafening Heartbeats
4. Casket (Remastered)
5. Deadly Intentions (Obituary Cover)
6. The Chase Is On (English Dogs’ Cover)

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