### The Sonic Landscape of Void Dancer: A Deep Dive into *Sorrow From Self-Undoing*
Seattle, a city often celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry, has birthed a myriad of musical genres, from grunge to indie rock. Yet, nestled in the shadows of its more commercialized exports lies a vibrant metal scene that continues to thrive. Among the latest contenders in this arena is **Void Dancer**, a band that embodies the essence of melodic death metal and deathcore. Their new EP, *Sorrow From Self-Undoing*, is a testament to their artistry and a nod to the city’s storied musical legacy.
### A Fresh Take on Established Sounds
Void Dancer’s sound is a fascinating blend of influences, drawing heavily from the progressive stylings of mid-2000s bands like **Between the Buried and Me** and the intricate, rapid-fire riffs characteristic of **Revocation**. While the deathcore elements are evident, particularly in vocalist Clint Gee’s delivery, his performance transcends typical genre tropes. Instead of falling into the familiar “breeeeeee” vocal style that often plagues the subgenre, Gee showcases a dynamic range that enhances the overall listening experience.
### The Journey Begins: “Bowse”
The EP opens with “Bowse,” a track that sets the stage for what’s to come. The slow build, marked by a psychedelic arpeggiated guitar, transitions into a series of contorted riffs driven by drummer Brandon DuPraw’s relentless beat. This track exemplifies Void Dancer’s commitment to fluidity; they deftly avoid lingering too long on any single riff or melodic idea. The song flows seamlessly, creating a cohesive listening experience that captivates from the outset.
### Influences on Display: “Heir to Error”
However, not all is perfect in the realm of *Sorrow From Self-Undoing*. The track “Heir to Error” reveals a tendency for the band to lean heavily on their influences. While it’s understandable given their collaboration with producer Jamie King—who has worked extensively with BTBAM—the song occasionally feels like a homage rather than an original creation. Nevertheless, King’s production quality shines through, providing a polished sound that complements the band’s intricate arrangements.
### The EP’s High Points: A Triad of Tracks
The latter part of the EP is where Void Dancer truly hits its stride. The trio of tracks that conclude the album showcases their songwriting prowess. “Trench Mouth” begins with a shimmering guitar reminiscent of the previous track, launching into a display of tight, synchronized riffs. Guitarists Zane Smothermon and Ilya Ignatov demonstrate remarkable chemistry, making this track a standout moment. The chorus features a scream-sung vocal melody that evokes the spirit of **Darkane**, striking a perfect balance between aggression and melody.
Following this is “Cathardiac,” a track that shifts vibes effortlessly, keeping listeners engaged. It’s a testament to the band’s versatility and ability to explore different musical landscapes. This is quickly followed by “New Gold Standard,” which features bouncy riffs and a psychedelic jam in the middle, building tension before delivering a memorable conclusion.
### Crafting Tight, Engaging Songs
One of the most commendable aspects of *Sorrow From Self-Undoing* is Void Dancer’s ability to craft tight, engaging songs. Each track is executed within a concise three to four-minute runtime, ensuring that no moment feels wasted. The thoughtful sequencing of the five tracks creates a dynamic listening experience, where each song feels like a new high point, leaving listeners eager for more.
### Final Thoughts
With *Sorrow From Self-Undoing*, Void Dancer not only pays homage to their influences but also carves out their own niche within the metal landscape. Their ability to blend intricate musicianship with engaging songwriting makes this EP a noteworthy addition to the genre. As they continue to evolve, it will be exciting to see how they further develop their sound and push the boundaries of melodic death metal and deathcore.
