Reviewed by Ian Webber

This five-track EP from these post-hardcore rockers of North Carolina is a masterclass in squeezing the big sounds of an epic concept album into a small number of tracks with ease. Expansive washes of sound flow and pulse from layers of guitars that build towards edgy crescendos and fall away into pools of reverb as Aaron Stone's distinctive vocals soar with power and vulnerability. The chiming intro to "Ghost Story" switches between emotionally-soaked guitars and chugging riffs as the band explores the cost of our salvation. A guest appearance by Everything In Slow Motion's Shane Ochsner adds dynamic with some whispers that lead to heartfelt screams. At the centre of the piece is the instrumental "Cesura" which provides a dreamy pause to consider the open and honest questions raised by all that has been addressed by the band's overtly Christian lyrics. The real triumph of the recording, however, is the closing "Open Letter" which addresses a range of difficult questions. It flips between apologetics, doubt and hope to a background full of interest to the listener. Multiple percussion tracks weave with menacing chimes and a bouncing progressive bass line alongside lyrics such as "How mercy and justice can still be consistent and both have their way?" What appeals is that no answers are given to these impossible questions. The cut finishes on a thunderous outro only to return as a hidden track in the form of a prayer asking for God's presence and guidance. Once again, My Epic have produced a mature collection with crystal-clear production that is full of dynamic and harmony along with a solid lyrical punch. The only real problem with 'Viscera' is that it is a little too short.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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