SINSID - ALL THAT REMAINS

Opening with the title track, 'All That Remains', SINSID wasted no time making an impression. Up-tempo riffs, passionate drumming, and an experienced vocal performance drive the song forward with confidence, while the sharp melodic hooks quickly lodge themselves in the listener's mind. Just when the track seems to have revealed all its strengths, it closes with an impressive guitar solo that provides a fitting finale and further underlines the band's musicianship. It is a powerful opening statement that highlights SINSID'S ability to balance traditional heavy metal energy with memorable songwriting. 'Sarcophagus' keeps the momentum high with a fast-paced, adrenaline-fuelled performance wrapped in a dark and sinister atmosphere. Driving drumming, heavily distorted riffs, and a commanding vocal delivery form the backbone of the track, with the vocals occasionally recalling a blend of EXODUS' aggression and IRON MAIDEN's melodic approach. While the bass could be more prominent in the mix, the song remains engaging throughout. Its only notable weakness lies in the songwriting, which feels slightly drawn out in places and occasionally softens the impact of an otherwise powerful composition. 'Templars of Metal' continues the album's dark and commanding atmosphere, driven by grinding guitar work, forceful drumming, and another assured vocal performance. The track's standout moment arrives when a choir joins the lead vocals, adding a triumphant layer that elevates the song's already powerful chorus. Combined with its anthemic energy, it becomes the kind of heavy metal anthem that practically demands raised fists and audience participation.

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'Lawless Hunter' leans heavily into the atmosphere without sacrificing its infectious energy. Every riff carries a satisfying weight, while the twin guitars complement one another beautifully, creating a cohesive and engaging performance throughout. The bridge briefly embraces a more chaotic approach, but it feels like a deliberate songwriting choice rather than a loss of direction. With its memorable hooks and unmistakable live energy, this is one of those songs that seems destined to become a crowd favourite. The opening drumming on 'Breaking All the Rules' immediately evokes an old-school heavy metal spirit, sounding raw and unpolished in the best possible way. It soon gives way to driving, weighty guitar lines that flow seamlessly into a passionate vocal performance. The song radiates a genuine sense of unity and love for traditional heavy metal, making it one of the album's most spirited moments. A creative guitar solo in the bridge, combined with the track's relentless pace, injects another surge of energy that is bound to ignite the mosh pit in a live setting. 'Somewhere in the Dark' stands out as one of the album's highlights. Built around a surging bass line, commanding drumming, and a memorable guitar riff, the track combines speed with a strong melodic foundation that lingers long after it ends. The addition of layered chants alongside the lead vocals gives the chorus extra weight and is particularly effective. Midway through, the song takes an unexpected turn as the relentless pace gives way to a beautiful acoustic passage, subtly supported by electric guitar textures. The moment provides a welcome contrast before the track returns to its infectious energy, making it one of the album's most rewarding compositions. The journey concludes with the closing track, 'Lords of the Northern Land', a fitting finale that carries a powerful sense of triumph and determination. From its opening moments, the song evokes the feeling of preparing for battle, driven by commanding riffs, confident musicianship, and a strong melodic foundation. More than just a closing track, it serves as a summary of everything SINSID does well, combining memorable songwriting with seasoned performances to bring the album to a satisfying and uplifting conclusion.

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With "All That Remains", SINSID delivers a confident and thoroughly enjoyable heavy metal record that honours the genre's traditions while showcasing the band's own identity. Strong songwriting, memorable melodies, and experienced musicianship make this an album that will appeal to both longtime heavy metal fans and newcomers alike.

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SCORE 8.5/10

REVIEWED BY SWAMPY