Graphic Nature - Who Are You When No One Is Watching? (2024)^{Release ID: 53156}

From Kent, England, Graphic Nature is another addition to the rising nu metalcore scene. Since releasing their first album A Mind Waiting to Die in 2023, they've become a main attraction in the more popular rock/metal festivals. They've also had Cancer Bats and Vended by their side in their tours!

17 months is around the same time difference between the births of me and my older brother. It's also how long it took after the debut's release for the band to unleash their second album to the world, Who Are You When No One Is Watching? The album is so emotional, with lyrics of showing one's true self. This concept stemmed from around the debut's release when vocalist Harvey Freeman was randomly assaulted during a train ride, and the PTSD Freeman has subsequently suffered.

The intro "Who Are You?" is quite exciting for something heavily distorted. "Locked In" kick-starts the action in massive impact, from both the music and vocals. "Blinded" has great heaviness, with some Spiritbox vibes. "Human" has more melodic synths, while blending it with heavy guitars, a balance already mastered by Sleep Token. "Something I'm Not" is a true highlight. It's more of a rap-ish nu metal track, though Freeman's rapping actually works quite greatly. That's the song with the most inspiration from the train trauma, with the lyrics rapped and screamed in emotional pain.

"Breathe" is more electronic, yet makes room for more of the ravaging nu metalcore. "Session24" is a pleasant interlude. It's basically TDEP's "Weekend Sex Change" given a BMTH/Enter Shikari twist. The hardcore heaviness shines the best in the short "N.F.A." Same with "Fractured", though it could've used some slight fixing.

"Low" is filled with heartful emotion, as Freeman lets out lyrics of his mental health to relate to those listening. Single "To the Grave" lacks some impact, but it still works here. "When No One is Watching" hits it high as the heavy metalcore sound is given a good taste of drums and bass. The final track "For You" perfectly summarizes all the band has given you in this album.

Who Are You When No One Is Watching? is another blessing for 2024 in the nu metal and metalcore realms. The amazing production and relatable lyrics should please many listeners. This shows that Graphic Nature can stand out in the nu metalcore crowd!

Favorites: "Locked In", "Blinded", "Something I'm Not", "N.F.A.", "When No One is Watching", "For You"