[Album Review] STRUCK/DOWN – Queue For The Cure

The album channels the progressive heft of Mastodon, the rhythmic punch of Lamb of God, and the precision of Metallica, while still carving out a sound uniquely their own. Pre-release buzz highlighted the band’s groove-driven energy and riff-heavy approach, setting expectations for a modern, visceral take on UK metalcore and groove metal.

Musically, STRUCK/DOWN sit firmly in a groove-metal/metalcore hybrid, blending influences from early-2000s metalcore with contemporary heaviness. Tight palm-muted riffs, harmonised leads, and rhythmic precision dominate the arrangements, giving the record a cohesive, riff-centric drive. The album prioritises groove, riffs, and hooks rather than instrumental virtuosity, which defines its straightforward, forceful style.

Lyrically, Queue For The Cure explores the struggles of day-to-day life in an uncertain world, touching on mental health, societal pressures, and personal burnout. While the content is earnest and relatable, it occasionally lacks the layered imagery or narrative complexity that could elevate the emotional impact. The album acts as a polaroid of contemporary frustrations, and while the message is consistent, some tracks feel more direct than evocative.

Linden Twyman’s delivery balances rhythmic precision with emotional urgency, anchored by a commanding mid-range grit that occasionally fractures into more impassioned melodic passages. Vocals dominate much of the mix, which sometimes limits space for the instruments to shine, though they remain engaging and stylistically consistent throughout the record.

The lead and rhythm guitars lock tightly together with metallic crunch, harmonic clarity, and well-placed leads, though the dense mix occasionally masks their full impact. Drums are precise and groove-focused, with punchy kick patterns and controlled fills that drive the riff-heavy arrangements. The bass remains subtle, underpinning the low end without stepping into the spotlight. Overall, the band demonstrates strong technical skill, though minor mix and articulation issues occasionally appear in fast passages.

While much of the album adheres to genre conventions, STRUCK/DOWN demonstrate originality in the way they balance aggression, groove, and melodic phrasing, particularly in tracks that give instruments breathing space. The title track, “A Queue For The Cure”, stands out as a high point, featuring dynamic pacing, immersive drum patterns, a lo-fi vocal break, and an epic guitar solo, showcasing what the band can achieve when the mix allows clarity and space for expression.

The production is mixed densely, which sometimes leaves the guitars and drums vying for attention behind the dominant vocals. Effects like band-pass filtering, lo-fi breaks, and lead guitar nuances are executed cleverly, but the mix overall could benefit from more separation and dynamic range. Strengths lie in the band’s cohesive riff work, groove, and strong vocal performance, while weaknesses include repetitive arrangements, occasional overcrowding in the mix, and a lack of variation in tempo and energy across most tracks.

Queue For The Cure is a promising debut that demonstrates STRUCK/DOWN’s command of groove-driven, riff-heavy metal and their ability to merge melodic sensibility with raw energy. Fans of groove metal, UK metalcore, and bands that balance aggression with melody will find much to appreciate, particularly on standout tracks like the title song. While improvements in production clarity and dynamic variation would elevate the album further, it is a genuine reflection of the band’s experiences and ambitions, providing a relatable, headbang-worthy listening experience.

TRACK LISTING

1. "One Last Drag"
2. "Keep Your Chin Held Why"
3. "The Slog"
4. "Don't Be Like That"
5. "A Queue for the Cure"
6. "This Tall to Ride"
7. "Who Stole The Sun?"
8. "Low"
9. "Leach"
10. "Eat the Fear, Drink The Worry"