SISTER SHOTGUN – Fragments

The U.K.’s Sister Shotgun are “super stoked” for the release of their first full length album. Their sound is a distinctive blend of Modern Metal and Melodic Metal. The song writing shows promise and flashes of brilliance. The production is solid and the musicianship is well executed if pedestrian at times.

“Sacred Heart” is a lead off track that proclaims the band’s arrival. Vocalist Chloe Ozwell says the song is a very emotional and musically it’s the sound the band has been striving for since the band started. She further states “Everyone has stepped up their game musically and I think this is probably one of my favourite tracks of ours to date.” It’s a signature sound delivered with both full and powerful female vocals and bursts of male screaming. It features an infectious chorus and guitar work which blends melodic riffs, traditional soloing and Modern Metal crunchiness. Follow up “She Lives” is another well written song. It features memorable, passionately delivered lyrics combined with staccato melodic riffs and a menacing rhythm. “From The Ashes” maintains momentum with vocals and guitars trading off layered choruses and insistent riffs. Nothing complicated but well done and instantly engaging.

“Fragments” is the first of three power ballads which populate the album. It isn’t the best as it suffers from vocalist over reach. Her syllabic emphasis unnecessarily marred an otherwise cool and dreamy vocal performance. “For The Love Of Hate” and “Silhouettes” are the other ballads. The former is well executed but comes off flat. It isn’t constructed to build and release tension. The latter overcomes this same shortfall with a rich chorus and hearty riffs. It’s the best ballad on the album. The latter half of the album doesn’t maintain the high quality of first, but is nonetheless an enjoyable listen. “Scorn” is the longest song and epically closes the album. It’s a victory lap which explores both vocal and musical tempos and textures.

Sister Shotgun is rightfully excited to share Fragments. Their polished sound and capacity to deliver captivating songs makes Sister Shotgun a band to follow. Hopefully, they maintain a grip on their sound.

TUNE INTO METALEXPRESSRADIO.COM at NOON & MIDNIGHT (EST) / 6:00 & 18:00 (CET) TO HEAR THE BEST TRACKS FROM THIS UPCOMING RELEASE!!!

TRACKLIST (Highlights: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 10)

1. Sacred Heart
2. She Lives
3. From Ashes
4. Fragments
5. Miss Fortune
6. For The Love Of Hate
7. Kill The Lights
8. Silhouettes
9. Mourning Iris
10. Scorn

LINEUP

Chloe Ozwell – Vocals
Benji Tatlock – Guitar
Niall Wills – Guitar
Tim Chambers – Bass
Dave Harvey – Drums