UNTIME – Fall

I will be the first to admit that I have never previously crossed paths with the Tønsberg-based outfit known as Untime, but this catchy and easily digestible little 4-track EP of theirs is an enjoyable offering that serves up plenty of earth-shattering riffs, big and juicy grooves, and a punchy rhythm section. In some ways, it reminds me slightly of the legendary Prong and that fierce vibe of their material, but the aura and feel of Fall recall a lot of late 90s metal releases in general. If I had to be more specific, I would probably feel tempted to name-drop such acts as Pissing Razors, Devildriver, and perhaps even Helmet at their most aggressive and face-melting, but the similarities are subtle, mind you. “Ashes” marks the highlight and is a real potent, varied, and muscular track containing a great drive and several cool details, and “Exhale” and “The Abyss” are arguably the darkest and most melodically strong pieces included on Fall. Only the second track titled “Fade” fails to spark the imagination and carry me elsewhere.  

Untime may not be bringing anything new to the table as such, but they deliver their explosive sonic rumblings with aggression and confidence, and although the vocals could have been slightly more adventurous and dynamic in a few places, fans of adrenaline-packed metal should give this pounding fucker a handful of spins when the ever-reliable Gymnocal Industries unleash it in late May.