Elements Unleashed: Siamese Defies Expectations
Band: Siamese
Album Title: Elements
Label: Long Branch Records
Release Date: 09/08/2024
This Friday, August 9th, Danish metalcore band Siamese drops their sixth studio album, “Elements“, via Long Branch Records. They have been dropping singles for this album for a little bit more than a year now and it was about time we could finally get the full picture. And it was worth the wait!
Here’s my breakdown of what to expect from this release.
1. The Shape of Water (feat. Ten56)
Starting off strong with the element of water, this track hits hard from the get-go. If you caught the single last year, you already know the energy Siamese is bringing. Aaron Matts from ten56 adds an extra layer of intensity with his feature, fitting perfectly within the heavier parts. The synth melody in the background doesn’t just support the song, it elevates it. It is giving a dramatic flair like the beginning of something epic. A solid opener that sets the tone for the whole album.
2. Vertigo
Switching gears, “Vertigo” kicks off with a catchy guitar riff before diving into a more electronic, pop-infused vibe. It’s a groovier, slower track compared to the opener, but it’s still got that undeniable energy. The song picks up midway but retains its groove, allowing the vocalist, Mirza Radonjica, to shine during the bridge. By the time the chorus rolls back around, it’s bigger and better, everything we love for a final chorus.
3. Predator
Now, this one’s a ride. “Predator” is easily my favorite single they’ve released. The track starts off calm, with just piano, vocals, and an atmospheric build-up, but don’t be fooled, things get wild fast. The sudden electronic voice declaring “Predator” is like flipping a switch. It is launching us into a chaotic drum & bass that’s impossible to ignore. Throw in a traditional metalcore section for good measure, and you’ve got a song that’s as fun as it is unpredictable. The lead-up to the seamlessly fused EDM and metal breakdown is incredibly satisfying. And the final chorus hits like a ton of bricks.
4. Chemistry
This was my least favorite single, but within the context of the album, it finds its place. It’s still heavy, but with a slower tempo than “Predator“. While it leans more on traditional metalcore elements, the electronic influences are still there. The chorus is a standout, thanks to Mirza’s crystal-clear vocals. The breakdown hits hard, followed by a satisfying final chorus—definitely worth the listen.
5. Through My Head (feat. Resolve)
Another banger of a single, “Through My Head” starts off with trap-style instrumentals before transitioning into a groovy, catchy chorus. Anthony Diliberto from Resolve matches Siamese’s energy perfectly, especially in the back-and-forth breakdown. The feature feels seamless, like it was meant to be part of the song all along and that is what should be expected from features.
6. On Fire
This track is all about blending genres, and it does it effortlessly. Starting off traditionally, it quickly drops into a house music-inspired verse that pulls us straight into the club. The guitar riff in the bridge is pure perfection, and the transitions between genres are smooth as butter. The breakdown is intense, with an electronic drop that’ll give you that stank face in the best way possible.
7. God is a Woman
The first “new” track on the album, “God is a Woman“, strips things down with a vocal-focused intro and some background claps. There’s a touch of R&B or rap in the mix, and the whole thing feels like it could be a metal cover of a pop hit. Turns out, it actually is a cover of Ariana Grande‘s “God is a Woman“, which explains why the title was so familiar to me. And Siamese gives it their own unique spin with their own style and switch of perspective in the lyrics. The harmonies at the end are beautiful, making it a surprising yet fitting addition to the album.
8. Utopia
“Utopia” kicks off with a vocal-driven intro that brings a wave of nostalgia, reminiscent of 2010s rock. There’s a retro synth in the background that complements the tone of the guitar and the riffs. The acoustic guitar bridge is a nice touch, adding to that nostalgic feel while still sounding fresh and current.
9. Hurricane
Starting with an intriguing voice intro and experimental sounds of drums that seem to be made from random items, “Hurricane” quickly moves into a heavy drop and an open chorus. The teasing of electronic elements hints at something bigger, and when the drum and bass kicks in, it doesn’t disappoint. The breakdown, complete with turntable like scratches, is a standout moment, with the instrumentals taking a breather in the bridge before launching into the final chorus.
10. This is Not a Song
The album closes with a bang. “This is Not a Song” starts with a robotic female voice announcement. We are warned: “This is not a song, this is a motherfucking mosh pit”. It is setting the stage for an absolute energy booster. The song is a series of increasingly heavy breakdowns, unlike anything else on the album. After a record full of traditionally structured songs, this one defies expectations in the best way possible. It’s chaotic, it’s fun, and it’s the perfect way to end an album, especially when you consider how their last album, “Home“, closed with the emotional “Sloboda“. This song is meant to be played live and I can’t wait to hear it.
Overall
“Elements” showcases Siamese’s ability to take traditional song structures and inject them with their own blend of genres, giving each track a unique personality. The album’s final track is the most unexpected and stands out not just in the band‘s discography, but in metal as a whole. With its diverse influences and seamless genre transitions, “Elements” is a bold statement from Siamese that’s not afraid to push boundaries while keeping their core sound intact.
Unexpected Favorite: This Is Not A Song
Favorite Genre Blend: Predator
Catchiest chorus: Through My Head