Photo Credit: Cian Marangos
Metalcore band Void Of Vision come from Melbourne, Australia and their latest album, What I’ll Leave Behind, is a powerful testament to their resilience and growth as artists. The band are known for their intense sound and electrifying live shows. On their fourth studio album they take a bold step forward, using it as a cathartic release for lead vocalist Jack Bergin, who has faced significant personal challenges in recent years.
What I’ll Leave Behind is deeply personal, serving as an open journal for Bergin. The backdrop of this album is shaped by his traumatic experiences, including a seizure caused by an arteriovenous malformation in his brain in 2022, followed by a brain bleed that required surgery in 2023. These events have not only influenced the thematic depth of the album, but also shaped its musical direction, creating a soundscape that merges metalcore with elements of hardcore, nu-metal, industrial, and electronic music.
Opening track, Oblivion, sets the tone for the album with a hard-hitting fusion of electronic textures and aggressive riffs. Bergin’s raw vocals unravel a whirlwind of emotional chaos, highlighted by the haunting repetition of the phrase “destroy everything.” This lyric encapsulates the fear and dread associated with losing control – a recurring theme throughout the album that captures the heaviness of mental and emotional struggles.
Blood For Blood continues this intense exploration, layering crushing breakdowns over an infectious electronic foundation. The incorporation of drum and bass elements injects a fresh energy into the song, complementing its lyrics that radiate anger and frustration, draped in a rebellious, nihilistic tone. This track is a definitive anthem of defiance, showcasing the band’s ability to convey powerful emotions through music.
The songs Supernova and Decades introduce a high-energy sound reminiscent of Bring Me The Horizon, with soaring choruses and dynamic instrumentation. The lyrical nods to their influences – particularly in Decades with the line “such a should’ve been, could’ve been” – further emphasise the band’s versatility while remaining rooted in their core sound. Both tracks serve as high-octane moments in the album, celebrating the chaos of youth and the constant struggle for identity amidst uncertainty.
In stark contrast, Neurotic delves into a more uneasy territory, blending sultry female vocals and whispers with the unsettling sound of hospital monitors. This eerie undertone effectively mirrors Bergin’s own experiences, providing an unsettling but deeply relatable exploration of anxiety and fear. The haunting production choices elevate the song, creating a sense of discomfort that resonates with the listener.
Gamma Knife channels angst through dynamic drumming, while Beautiful Things serves as a reflective interlude. Slowing the pace, this track opens with a drumming segment before melodic vocals emerge, providing a poignant pause for reflection amid the album’s chaos. It offers a tranquil moment that invites listeners to contemplate their journey. In contrast, Empty returns to reverb-laden riffs, creating a rich auditory landscape for introspection. Its vulnerable lyrics delve into feelings of isolation and longing.
The intensity picks up again with Midnight Sweat, a heavier track characterised by a strong bass and drum tone, presenting a more raw and visceral sound. This is followed by the album’s closing track, Angel of Darkness, which encapsulates the varied sounds explored throughout the album. It serves as a concluding conversation, weaving together the themes and experiences that Bergin has shared while still leaving the listener craving more. Despite the album’s resolution, What I’ll Leave Behind resonates with a sense of unfinished business – a reflection of Bergin’s ongoing struggles and growth. The journey through pain and hardship is met with a commendable and inspirational spirit of resilience.
In conclusion, What I’ll Leave Behind is not just an album; it’s a testament to the strength found in vulnerability. Void Of Vision harnesses their personal battles to create an evocative and immersive listening experience. The band’s willingness to confront their demons through music is a powerful reminder of the beauty that can emerge from pain. This album is a significant milestone in their discography, capturing the essence of their artistic evolution while inviting listeners to reflect on their struggles and triumphs.
9/10
Standout Tracks: Supernova, Neurotic, Decades
For Fans Of: Alpha Wolf, Ocean Grove, Northlane
Written by: Zena Morris
