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Loathe: A Stranger to You review
After a six-year hiatus, Loathe unveiled their fourth album, 'A Stranger to You,' which departs significantly from the Liverpool band's metalcore foundations. The record incorporates diverse sonic elements including industrial textures, jazz piano, shoegaze, acoustic guitars, and electronic production, supported by guest appearances from rapper Bucki Sugar, vocalist Olli Appleyard, and producer Jordan Rakei.
The album demonstrates considerable tonal variation across its tracks, juxtaposing granite-textured guitar riffs with atmospheric passages and a conventional love song. Critics noted stylistic references spanning from Herbie Hancock's 1970s jazz fusion to The Cure's atmospheric work, while acknowledging the record maintains cohesion despite its eclectic influences, positioning it alongside other experimental metal releases from acts like Deafheaven.
In short
- Liverpool metalcore band Loathe released their fourth album after six years, marking a major stylistic shift from heavy metal origins
- The record blends industrial noise, jazz, shoegaze, and acoustic elements with contributions from multiple guest artists
- Album alternates between heavy passages and softer atmospheric moments, drawing comparisons to experimental metal precedents
Explained simply
Loathe are a Liverpool band known for aggressive, heavy metal music. After six years without releasing new material, they have returned with A Stranger to You, their fourth album.
The new record differs significantly from the heavy sound that characterised the band's earlier work. A Stranger to You incorporates jazz piano, industrial textures, atmospheric sections, electronic production, and quieter moments including a conventional love song. The album features contributions from rapper Bucki Sugar and other guest musicians.
Yet despite these varied influences, the album maintains a cohesive sound throughout. This experimental approach connects Loathe to other contemporary metal bands who have similarly expanded beyond their original musical style.
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