Talent-wise, the sisters of ALT BLK ERA are well beyond their years even if lyrically, it’s just about as cringe-worthy as anyone’s high school diary. Hearing the “nobody understands me” cliche from actual teenagers instead of balding middle-aged men trying for a new demo is a very refreshing change, though!
It bears to be said, nearly every big-name band around looks back on their first release with a little embarrassment. However, the kids who found shelter and solace within their music grow with them and remain their biggest fans. ALT BLK ERA has everything it takes to foster that kind of organic growth and maintain stability as their careers progress. They have raw talent, die-hard fans, and make for an amazing new addition to the renaissance of black-led British punk.
Apropos of their British identity, forcing their accents front and center rather than conforming to the (honestly weird/outdated) practice of defaulting to American for marketability is one of the coolest things about their music. The song “Oggy” is a strong standout on Freak Show, a self-released EP. Aside from just being a fun banger, it holds a sense of identity and culture that’s unique to the band. Our scene desperately needs new perspectives like this. If you’re one of the countless metalcore fans feeling burnt out on new music because everything sounds the same now, start seeking out and supporting bands like ALT BLK ERA.
Though they may still have some growing to do, their sound is polished and their image is well realized. Their innovation and unapologetically unique experimentation are the exact ingredients needed to revitalize the very genres that seek to gatekeep from the “TikTok generation”. In conclusion; ALT BLK ERA is one to watch, if their countless features with the likes of BBC, Kerrang!, & Metal Hammer didn’t make it obvious already.
Buy the EP here:
7 / 10
LJ de WITT