REVIEW: Mallavora - Echoes

Mallavora, a four-piece alt-metal band from the heart of Bristol, are taking strides for both their own unique sound and in the fight for accessibility within the industry. Their brand new album ‘Echoes’ explores the disjointed emotions and experiences that often come with identity issues, chronic illness, disability and neurodivergence in the form of four raw tracks.

From Mallavora’s earlier releases to the present; ‘Echoes’ continues a strong showcase to who they are and what we should expect when listening. With lyrics that speak from the depths of the soul to topics that everyone can relate to no matter what background and a no bigotry attitude- we are obsessed with this EP. 

The first track ‘It’s Not Enough’ sets the scene for the whole release. Strong lead guitar starts us off from Larry Sobieraj which surrounds the entire track, whilst lead singer Jessica Douek’s vocals swap effortlessly between singing and her powerhouse screams that truly command our attention. Layered with bass from Ellis James and drums from Jack Pederson, the sound for the quartet is complete. The track tells us about a recurring nightmare of falling endlessly, the ground figuratively and literally opening up to absorb us whole. 

‘Skin’ delves into the feeling of being different to everyone else and yet staying defiant against the forced conformity of society, and instead staying unique to yourself. “I will not obey” screams Jessica, through multiple layers of sound to provide the feeling of fighting a battle and coming out on top. It reminds us of always being true to yourself no matter what other people might think or believe of you, because the only person who can define who you are is just that: yourself. 

The third track ‘Vultures’ follows similar themes that are seen throughout the EP of a deep-rooted feeling of not belonging. It seems woven both into the lyrics, crafted by Jessica Douek, and the music, the instrumentals written by guitarist Larry Sobieraj, both of whom articulate in their own ways the experiences of chronic illness and the many things they have had to live with whilst mourning their pasts - yet these deeply personal struggles have now been transformed into art that is unapologetic and fiercely bold. 

‘Echoes’ wraps up the release nicely, with backing vocals and a softer lead that contrasts with the other tracks we have heard so far. It demonstrates the variety, willingness and confidence that Mallavora have to try different styles in order to not stagnate. Of course they still manage to sneak some of the Mallavora signature screams in towards the end, but they've left it a while in order to provide maximum punch.

The band have also announced an intimate EP release show on the release date, the 20th of November, at Signature Brew in Haggerston, London which promises to be accessible to all. Mallavora have already shared access plans for this including: wheelchair accessibility, BSL interpreted performances, lyric sheets, no strobe lighting, sensory kits, a seated area, masks available at the door and a 15 minute break in the headline set.

The industry needs to be more accessible than it currently is; we all know it. Every type of person, body and ability should be able to come out to see live gigs, perform and enjoy themselves without putting themselves in pain to do so. Mallavora are paving the way out of necessity for their audience and themselves, and we all need to be celebrating this.

Altogether, the ‘Echoes’ EP, and the care taken for its release show, showcases and highlights so much of the message that Mallavora stand for: being yourself in spite of everything, and we couldn’t agree more.

'Echoes' will be released on November 20th via Marshall Records.

Words: Tyler Whiting

Photo: GLK Media