REVIEW: We The Faded - TRANSCENDENCE

Emerging Norwegian band We The Faded are gearing up to release their debut album, ‘TRANSCENDENCE’, which is set to be a diverse listening experience while showcasing the band's unique start, and starting off their contribution to rock music. Forming in 2022, the female-led band has released some tracks from the album, creating suspense and allure for what's to come. They may have only just started out, but We The Faded intends to enter the scene with a bang and leave their mark in the minds of metal fans across the globe. 

‘TRANSCENDENCE’ is a unique listening experience. We The Faded has subverted any expectations listeners may have about metal music. The pop elements, when paired with traditional metal components, create a sound that separates them from most conventional heavy acts. Standout tracks, such as opener 'Crisis Mode' and its immediate follower ‘Damage Control’, incorporate complex guitar riffs, piano elements and opening crescendos that allure the listener into their bewitching sound. Tracks vary in style but all share similarities to bands such as New Year's Day and Evanescence. Singer Reeta Paananan presents siren-like vocals which aid in showcasing the story of fragility and self discovery. As the album develops, you get a look into the band's harmonious teamwork. Deep guitar riffs from guitarist Pat Karlsen mirror Paananans’ vocals whilst drummer Kimbo Gusty interjects with rhythmic drums to punch in the gritty lyrics. 

When talking about how We The Faded have created a diverse album, one song is a particular testament to that - ‘Ghost Of Me’. The song takes listeners back to 2007’s Linkin Park, in the form of a deeply emotional ballad that is perfect for crying your heart out to. The vocal variety swells with the listener's emotions as the track progresses. Two tracks later though, and something completely different comes. The track ‘The Hive’ contradicts the ballad, taking the form of a heavy masterpiece showcasing bassist Robin Fagerland's talent with bass elements throughout. The band incorporates all elements of metal music, even going as far as including modern influences like digital elements similar to Bring Me The Horizon. It truly is a joy to see elements across all genres coming together to tell a story. 

As ‘TRANSCENDENCE’ comes to an end you’re left with a love for We The Faded signature sound and the story they have just told. The overall story is one of self discovery, passion and we're left with the message to keep going, no matter what. It is always a risk to change traditions for a well-loved genre, especially one that is known for having a lot of traditionalists and haters of modern styles, but We The Faded have done it and done it well. Their mission to create a “blend of metal infused with pop elements” outlines them as leaders of a new sound. The piano elements and atmospheric openings bring in the pop side excellently whilst gritty lyrics, metal vocals and heavy instruments incorporate the heavier side, in a combination that just works. The album challenges convention, and does it harmoniously throughout. 

It is clear that We the Faded are dedicated to the art of metal music. By releasing the diverse listening experience that is their debut album ‘TRANSCENDENCE’, the band really makes their entrance and showcases their willingness to push boundaries. The whole album is an emotional story told through song. If We The Faded continue challenging conventions they are on track to becoming heavyweights spearheading a new side of heavy music. 

‘TRANSCENDENCE’ will be released independently on November 28th.

Words: Kira Lashmar

Photos: We The Faded