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Slowly but surely turning my website into a fan page for all things Australian, I am presenting you with yet another brilliant modern metal band from Down Under that is playing by its own rules and re-shaping the present and future of the local core scene. Melbourne-based underground heroes Earth Caller have been slowly but surely expanding their fan base, constantly touring and releasing certified ragers for quite some time. Operating under the radar until now, their surprising latest 5-track EP Renormalization could be the long overdue game changer and international breakthrough they so deserve.
Earth Caller already have two fanstastic metalcore records behind them, but things really went to the next level last year when they were officially joined by viral keyboardist, streamer and producer Misstiq. Their shared history goes back to the monumental 2021 singles 'Choke' and 'Avarice', as well as the reimagined version of Earth Caller's banger 'I Will Return' from 2022, all three pimped up with a definitive Bleeding Through-esque theatrical flair. Personal connection aside, they sounded so natural together that it really made sense for her to join them full-time, and the resulting promo single 'Alone' was clearly the start of something bigger and bolder, and easily one of the best standalone tracks of 2022.
Consistently delivering raw, relentless, right-in-your-face modern metalcore for years, the foundation was already laid by the boys in Earth Caller, impressively stepping up their game and evolving for Renormalization. Already known for reimagining popular metal tracks and classics with an epic symphonic signature, Misstiq gets full creative freedom to give the EP its distinctive industrial and cinematic flavour. The result is a faultless effort, showcasing the brilliant synergy between six insanely talented musicians, all given sufficient time to shine and leave their individual mark on the release.
The vocals are diverse and extremely well mixed together striking the perfect balance between growls, cleans, chanting and background choirs. The guitarwork is impecable, groovy riffs and gentle leads sharing the spotlight and keeping the tracks interesting and unpredictable throughout. Unlike many other modern records, the bass is gritty and powerful, backing the composition whilst demanding attention. The drumming is sharp and relentless, with certain build-ups and fills stealing the show at parts. Last but not least, all additional keys, electronics and production layers are well placed for just the right amount of unique atmospheric flourish without becoming intrusive and forced.
Right from the intro of 'Renormalize', you are sucked in Earth Caller's cold dystopian world, setting the tone for the entire EP with a subtle nod to recent Northlane-ish industrial madness. High octane lead single 'Parasite' switches to top gear in a flurry of raging instrumentation, techno backing and vocal tirades, unleashing the wonderful Jack Bergin from fellow Aussie legends Void of Vision for the perfect counterpart to Josh Collard's deep growls. Next up, familiar singles 'Alone' and 'Graphic' maintain the intensity and further develop the musical and lyrical themes of the EP before 'The End Of What It Was Before' adds the final touch for its fitting roaring conclusion.
Renormalization is further polished by a local production team that includes Lance Prenc (Thornhill, Alpha Wolf), Callan Orr (Banks Arcade, Stepson) and Forrester Savell (Make Them Suffer, Twelve Foot Ninja), all of whom hardly need introduction, easily making the EP a certain EP of The Year contender. It goes fast, hits hard and leaves you wanting more. Earth Caller have been dropping ragers at a consistent pace and somehow get better with each consecutive release, now raising the bar even higher. One could only wonder what is coming up for them next but if the recent past is any indication, it is about to stay loud, heavy and distinctively epic, and I am so here for it!
Earth Caller - Renormalization
Country: Australia
Released: 5 April 2023
Label: Self-release
Tracklisting:
1. 'Renormalize'
2. 'Parasite'
3. 'Alone'
4. 'Graphic'
5. 'The End Of What It Was Before'
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