The Water Runs Backwards Here

by Alex Munroe

Maritime metalcore overlords Surface Wounds have come a long way since releasing their debut EP, “The Tower,” in late 2020. With frenetic energy and the raw sound of a band just getting its feet wet, they established themselves as one of the city’s most promising hardcore bands. But with their first full-length album, “The Water Runs Backwards Here,” they’ve proven they can do more than just churn out riffs at a blistering pace.

The Water Runs Backwards Here by Surface Wounds

Spotify

The first track hooks you with riffs that ride on the back of a galloping drum beat; this sets the tone for what will be many of the tracks to come. The guitars keep the record chugging along from start to finish. The drums are fast and loud, and they give the songs a sense of urgency that matches the vocals But it’s not just about playing fast all the time; there are plenty of sections where they slow down so you can catch your breath before they throw another breakdown at you. I’m not sure what makes this record so unique soundwise, but I think part of its power might have to do with the fact that the screams are so throat-shredding they’re almost painful to listen to In fact, listening to the insane breakdown towards the middle of “Saint Leech” makes me want to learn how to scream myself.

Tyson Kingsley

Tyson Kingsley

The album title says it all: the water runs backwards here In an era where musical boundaries are being pushed further apart than ever, Surface Wounds has come up with an album that definitely deserves to be appreciated by anyone who wants to see our generation make something new and original I could go on for days about this album, but instead, I’ll just leave you with one last thought: If your definition of good music doesn’t include elements from genres outside your comfort zone (metalcore included), you’re missing out on something great with this record.

Tyson Kingsley