‘Glass Hands’ is yet another solid entry in the growing catalogue of Those Once Loyal songs.

Published on 16 April 2025 at 00:00

By Matt Haynes

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Nottingham…please…for the love of God…give someone else a chance to shine with their music will ya! I know we have a strong relationship with the music scene and its talented folks, but you have too many good bands and songs coming out from you, and I can’t keep up…

Right, that’s enough whinging. Let’s get on with the show. This review sees us revisit one of my all-time favourite Nottingham bands Those Once Loyal, who have been busy little bees working on new and exciting things whilst away from the stage. Back with a full line-up (which features the not-so-surprising but very talented return of Chayce Swain on bass), the lads are set to release some new material in 2025, giving us the first tasting in new track ‘Glass Hands’. Those Once Loyal  have always been a hands down

metalcore band to me, pulling in influences from Trivium and Killswitch Engage in their sound. The band have always mentioned about utilising elements of hardcore alongside their infamous metalcore vibes and the new track definitely feels reflects this amalgamation of the genres, which goes with the theme of evolving and maturing that I mentioned in an earlier review for 2025.

The song gives an ‘evil’ new take on the band (in a good ‘oh hello, what do we have here?’ way, not in a ‘never wash their hands after visiting the bathroom’ kind of way). The slower sections build up the energy and vibe before we go into the thrashier sections. For me, it was hard to pinpoint an exact sound to try and give an idea what this track sounds like but again in a good way. It shows that Those Once Loyal aren’t afraid to dabble outside melodic to give us something that is just pure heavy and crunchy.

The only downside of this track? The length. Sure, sometimes smaller is better (…behave) but just when you’re getting into the groove of the song you face yourself at the end. But let’s put the positive spin on that…it leaves you wanting more. Those Once Loyal have always been infectious in their sound and this is a testament to that as you’ll find yourself wanting that next riff from the group. ‘Glass Hands’ is merely a taste of what’s to come.

‘Glass Hands’ is yet another solid entry in the growing catalogue of Those Once Loyal songs. It’ll see circle pits, flying fists and headbanging a-plenty when it’s unleashed on the world and showcases a step forward for the band who are ready to tackle newer elements in their own unique way. Those Once Loyal are ready to bring their fans along for a journey that’ll see them enter a powerful new chapter in their story.

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