SINGLE REVIEW: Purge Of Sanity – Candescent

The French heavy scene has consistently remained something of an underdog, despite the incredible talent it has lent to the world; from heavy metal giants Gojira to post-hardcore cult favourites Birds in Row, it is a scene that should be respected for its versatility and pure ferocity. One band seeking to make an impact is Nantes’ Purge Of Sanity, who formed back in 2018 and are finally approaching the release of their debut EP, ‘The Expense Of Striving To Heal’. The lead single of this project, ‘Candescent’, is a rallying cry to the oppressed, and a rejection of an increasingly fascistic status quo.

From the get-go, Purge Of Sanity make it clear that this isn’t your grandpa’s metalcore. A whirlwind of electronic elements are distorted beyond recognition, whilst guitars chug with juggernaut force atop of blistering, violent percussion. It’s an experience that is simultaneously claustrophobic and cinematic, pulling clear influence from hardcore and nu-metal in a display of aggression that demands you move; the pulsing dance beats around the three minute mark are certain to propel you to your feet.

All of this brilliant instrumental chaos is decorated with a simply incredible vocal performance. Daken is a name that you may well one day see listed alongside other heavy scene greats, with a screamed and sung range that is difficult to comprehend; some of the sounds that Daken is able to produce are frankly inhuman, whilst their melodic vocals during the choruses carry a real power and weight. It makes for an impactful experience throughout, as Daken embodies the track’s themes of defiance and violence.

‘Candescent’ feels special, demonstrating a band that not only captures perfectly the musical zeitgeist of the modern heavy scene, but has pushed it to its creative limits. The result not only grabs your attention, but retains it, and forces you to pay attention to what Purge Of Sanity have to offer. Mark August 1st down in your diary for their EP release, as it may well be one of the heavy scene’s must-listen records of the year.

For Fans Of: Paledusk, Northlane, Void Of Vision, Pulse, Auraboros

Follow the band on social media below:

Instagram // Spotify