In Place Of Hope

Hefty Hampshire Hardcore

Five-piece In Place Of Hope uncage their snarling brand of post-hardcore / metalcore with the release of their new self-titled EP, with the Hampshire-based musicians taking inspiration from acts such as Killswitch Engage and the recently disbanded Alexisonfire.

Leading track Lifelines illustrates In Place Of Hope's intentions fantastically, balancing blaring verses of guttural outbursts with choruses of ecstasy. The melodic vocals of guitarist Rob Arthur are offset superbly from the deep roars of vocalist Matt Dennison, using the same system of counterbalance that has worked to such great effect for the likes of Trivium and Killswitch Engage.

Bridges deceivingly charms its way into life before erupting in a mass of pumping double kick drumming and hefty vocals. The song pleasingly reverts to the striking melodic choruses numerous times, with soaring sing-along stages shining through and strengthening the dynamic of the band's sound. Dark Roads & White Knuckles is a relentless finale, tending to focus on the heavier edge of In Place Of Hope's musical persona. The discordant guitar injections in the pre-chorus breakdowns work well, piercing through the strict rhythmic assault before the song explodes in blasts of harmoniousness.

is a brutally ballsy three track release from the Southampton-based quintet, showing their impressive ability to handle the relationship between ferociousness and melodiousness with competence. If bands such as Bring Me the Horizon and Parkway Drive normally tempt you, then upcoming metallers In Place Of Hope are ones that should certainly be making their way onto your radar.