Bridge Of Souls – Iris
Release Date: 30th September 2022
Label: Self Released
Bandcamp
Genre: Metalcore, Modern Metal.
FFO: Glamour Of The Kill, Bullet For My Valentine.
Review By: Ryan Payne
For most modern days, it’s difficult to find a sound that is truly defining and separates you from the rest of the vast talent that is currently around. The metalcore/modern metal quintet from Nancy (FR), Bridge Of Souls, unfortunately fall short from this with their debut album “Iris”. While featuring a lot of elements that are wildly used amongst more established metalcore acts, the band have created an album that is too safe for an ever-growing music industry.
Groovy metalcore riffs and hard strummed choruses dominate this record, accompanied by drumming that delivers a powerful beat throughout, with the addition of symphonic synths to create the atmosphere. All these aspects are used well enough on “Iris” but it’s nothing that hasn’t been heard or done before by a hundred other bands. The music itself is very well produced and for anyone looking for a very easy listening record without thinking too much will enjoy this album, but the composition is very simplistic and predictable.
The vocals on this record are also an acquired taste. The screams are well performed, but there’s no range to keep the listener gripped, nothing that is going to turn any heads or make this record stand out from the rest. The singing is also in tune and quite enjoyable when sung in a range that is more comfortable with the singer’s capabilities, but some songs are ruined with the attempted Architects style scream-singing that sounds more like the vocalist is causing more damage than good to his voice. There are also some elements of rap thrown into a couple of the tracks, but nothing that will really blow away any new listeners to the record.
“Iris” is in no way a bad album; the songs are enjoyable to listen through and all the members are clearly talented at what they do. This album would serve as a great gateway band to anyone just discovering metal music and wanted to ease their way into the world of metalcore. The only problem is, there isn’t anything unique or original about the songs. After listening to the first song, I was able to guess what to expect from the subsequent tracks, and I wasn’t far off. Not bad for a first album and it’ll definitely be a fun album for some people, but I think Bridge Of Souls need to look into evolving their sound a bit if they intend to make it in the cut-throat world of the music scene. 
(2 / 5)
