Almost twenty years ago in Denton, Texas, a metal band was born - that being Memphis May Fire. Known for their impactful lyrics, the band has created a place for themselves in the metal scene. They are set to release their latest album Shapeshifter, which will then followed by their tour across the USA with Casket, Wind Walkers, and Elijah.
The album opens with ‘Chaotic,’ a track that captivates with its infectious beat - full of catchy verses and punchy backbeats from Jake Garland's drums. The switch to heavier elements continues, with a spotlight on Matty Mullins' vocals that's followed further with a 'blegh' vocalization often heard in heavier music. ‘Infection’ provides a difference to this, delving into electronic elements and showcasing Memphis May Fire’s willingness to explore differing elements of music. Cory Elder and Kellen McGregor's strings swell as a pair, and work together to support Mullins' emotionally charged vocals, building up to the cough vocalization that then reinforces the song's theme. ‘Overdose’ further expands the album's sound, including electronic introductions, prominent strings, and Mullins' powerful, heavier vocals. The track balances aggression with catchy choruses, effectively showcases the album's theme of self-realization.
‘Paralyzed’ opens heavy, only to subvert expectations with melodic vocals. The whispered vocals mirror those of Hans Zimmer's ‘Electro Suite’, introducing a potentially sinister, villainous intent. McGregor’s use of the technique involving natural pinch harmonies on the guitar heightens the song’s intensity, creating a sense of urgency or panic. ‘Hell is Empty’ showcases Memphis May Fire's talent to play within the genre, incorporating certain metal elements to create an orchestral sound. The slowness acts as a support for the lyrics, often with repeated phrases pushing their meaning. ‘Necessary Evil' is one of the weaker moments here, found lacking its own identity. Its frenetic rhythms initially suggest that a new sound is to come, but ultimately echo previous elements we have already heard, disrupting the album's continuity of ongoing sonic evolution.
‘The Other Side’ offers a short rest, an electronic lull that shines through Mullins’ harmonious vocals, drawing similarities to both Sleep Token and the progressive metal style sound of the 2010s. Title track ‘Shapeshifter’ brings back the album’s initial momentum, presenting intense screamo vocals and guitar shreds, going back to Memphis May Fire’s earlier, heavier sound. ‘Versus’ provides an electronic interlude, with bass swells that create deep emotions within without resorting to heavy breakdowns. ‘Love Is War’ serves as a powerful, climactic finale, featuring classic metal sounds, driving drums, rapid-fire fast guitar riffs, and strong shreds, effectively concluding the album’s diverse sound and story.
Looking back on Shapeshifter, Memphis May Fire has delivered art that showcases a diverse range of styles both instrumentally and vocally. The group creates different elements within the album to portray their message and tell a story throughout. While one track, ‘Necessary Evil,’ slightly disrupts the album's flow, the overall experience is undeniably compelling, offering plenty of opportunities for headbanging, singalongs, and more.
Score: 7/10
Shapeshifter will be released on March 28th 2025 via Rise Records.
Words: Kira Lashmar
Photos: Memphis May Fire
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