Irepress' latest demo represents somewhat of a progression for this up and coming New England area based act. Drifting more into uncharted melodic territory, the effort combines the lingering harmonic aspects of dredg, with the dynamic aggression of the Deftones and a splash of emocore akin to groups like Simon Says and Spiritfall. It's an oddly timed blend that is quite chaotic as each song barrels through, yet it in some weird way it usually tends to work.

Layering soothing, tender emo-ish coons over top of understated guitars, the group glide along at a fairly progressive pace, occasionally breaking out into Taproot reminiscent outbursts of aggression. The riffs played are for the most part based in the new metal vein, but they are creative and also pay a substantial amount of attention towards sonic ambiance and buildup, giving them the ability to shape shift between serpentine harmonics and grating distorted lunges. Backed by waves of abrasively thick percussion that finds itself entangled within driving, yet somewhat uninspiring bass lines, the groups musical approach is fairly solid, albeit a bit reckless.

There's a handful of inspiring moments contained within the 4 tracks that comprise this demo, however sadly, there are also much more moments of seemingly misdirected energy. Overall, the group just never seem to be able to whip up enough momentum to get things kicked into high gear, making it all sound a bit too self indulgent and at times even meandering. With some attention put to detail and perhaps a more centralized style of writing, they could easily manage to get things off the ground, but as it stands now, its just a bit too loose and spread out to really warrant any empowering reaction. Admittedly, its almost frustrating at times, as the talent the group possess is constantly kept just out of sight, hiding beyond a horizon which can never seem to be reached. Yet still, it is that same vision which leaves the listener with a sense of hope, that once all 5 of the bands members land on the same page, some very interesting music will be made.