REVIEW: Chaos Reigns - Sweet Violence

Underground metal enthusiasts have a reason to celebrate with the release of Chaos Reigns’ ‘Sweet Violence’, a bold and innovative six-track EP that cements the band’s place as a rising force in the hardcore scene. While their influences—most notably The Dillinger Escape Plan—are clear, Chaos Reigns have carved out their own sound, blending technical proficiency, dynamic vocals, and an unrelenting energy that commands the attention of the UK metal scene.

Opening with ’False Gods’, the EP launches straight into a barrage of swaggering guitar chords and intricate rhythms, setting a frenetic yet polished tone that runs through the release. This track strikes a balance between chaos and control, featuring a memorable chorus that lays the groundwork for the sonic journey ahead. The pace quickens with ‘Graveyard Shift’, a dissonant and unpredictable song filled with panic-inducing riffs and unconventional transitions. These two tracks highlight the band’s ability to balance technical precision with a raw, visceral edge.

‘Violent Delights’ and ‘Snakes & Branches’ lean more towards the controlled side of vocals and showcase a more structured approach without sacrificing the unpredictability that defines the EP. Meanwhile, Both tracks feature accessible and easy to listen to grooves, interjected with the unhinged, chaotic riffs that fans have come to love from Chaos Reigns, making this a perfect EP for both veteran hardcore fans and those new to the genre.

The EP reaches its climax with ‘Sins of Success’, a track that draws on all the band’s strengths, combining intricate rhythms, ferocious riffs, and an emotional intensity that builds to an unforgettable final minute. The closer, ‘The Lotus King’, shifts focus, offering a more expansive and melodic experience. Featuring a haunting vocal duet with Mikey Chapman of Mallory Knox, this track slows the tempo and brings the EP to a dramatic and emotionally charged conclusion.

A key strength of ‘Sweet Violence’ is its flawless production, which ensures every element, whether it’s the intricate guitar work, dynamic vocals, or driving rhythm section, is captured with clarity and impact. Jason Heightman’s vocal range is particularly noteworthy, effortlessly transitioning between guttural screams and melodic passages, all delivered with confidence and a subtle British edge.

Beyond the technical brilliance, what makes ’Sweet Violence’ stand out is its ability to blend chaos with structure, aggression with melody, and technicality with emotional resonance. The EP feels like more than the sum of its parts, showcasing a band that is unafraid to push boundaries and experiment within their genre.

With ‘Sweet Violence’, Chaos Reigns have not only delivered an explosive and innovative record but also established themselves as one of the most exciting bands in modern hardcore. Their fusion of musical precision and hardcore punk energy is fresh, ambitious, and utterly captivating. We believe ‘Sweet Violence’ is a must-listen, and it positions Chaos Reigns as a band to watch in the years to come.

Words: Vee Richardson

Photos: Chaos Reigns