[Single Review] An aura of mystery fills the air as PALE COVENANT release their debut track 'The Unnamed Becomes The Named'

Official Artwork for 'The Unnamed Becomes Named'

'This project exists without identity by design. No members, no personas only the weight of what is created. The absence is intentional. The focus is absolute'

With an introduction like this, you have to tell yourself one of two things:
1. I am never leaving the house again in case some weird cult like members in fancy coloured robes appear and abduct me to become one of their own
2. A mysterious new musical project is coming and the interest is now there through this sentence alone

...considering I'm still sat here and no robed cultists have appeared in the following days, its safe the say that this review covers the second of these thoughts. This was an introduction to project Pale Covenant, a band that is wrapped in mystery and shrouded in curiosity. No further information has been given, only that they aim to focus on the music itself rather than the artist. With this message came the attachment of their upcoming debut 'The Unnamed Becomes The Named', a track that emanates mystery within itself.

Listening to the song, the track gives the notion of confronting something that was hidden or buried away. By naming the unnamed, you find yourself more willing to embrace the troubles or concerns you have and can face them head on without being obstructed by fear or anger. 

From hitting play, you're met with a heavy intro that immediately sets the severity of the track. Sending out Demon Hunter vibes both through the music and the vocals, the track delves into predominantly metalcore elements but with strokes of Alternative Metal and a small splash of Djent thrown in as well. The heavy vibes follow throughout, with plenty of chugs during the verse before a change in pace towards the chorus. The powerful impact of the drums drives the ferocity of this track into the ears of those listening to the song, amplifying the idea that Pale Covenant do not wish to confine themselves to a simple genre.

This tension is somewhat broken and enters a more fragile melodic state in the chorus, one filled by guest vocals from Jade Maris of cinematic prog metal champions Vanitas (instant bonus points for the use of my 2nd favourite gaming franchise here by the way!). Jade's clean vocals offer a step away from the intensity already brought to us within the track and a brief chance to breathe, presenting a significant contrast within the song over its 3 minute duration. However, its not long before we are thrown back into the dissonant tones we were met with prior.

Ending the track, we're met with a guitar melody that for me signifies the confrontation needed - making the unnamed becoming named. Fading out, there is a tone of realisation but also consideration - we may have named one aspect, but are there more battles and times to come where we must faced the unnamed?

A debut that leaves will sting you with its concept and overall mystery behind the band, 'The Unnamed Becomes The Named' will etch its way into your mind through its sense of curiosity and desire to build further upon the lore that Pale Covenant are beginning to piece together. A bit of mystery never hurts anyone and in this case, I'm intrigued to see how the Pale Covenant brand will grow.

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