Witness may be one of the most polished metalcore bands you’ve never heard of. Following a solid EP titled Of Great Importance the guys did not slow down, rushing into the studio to produce a release that feels anything but rushed. A single “The Loyal Ones” – a homage to the band’s small but devoted (and growing) fanbase got everyone pumped for the release with much in-demand vocalist Garret Rapp (The Color Morale) contributing in the bridge. Interestingly, this single didn’t make it into the final pressing of the EP – but in a reworked acoustic form.

Beacons is everything you loved about Witness with the amps turned up to 11. I know they don’t go to 11…that’s the point. This band doesn’t reinvent the wheel but I’d bet my next paycheck (figuratively of course) on the fact that Beacons will exceed the expectations of established fans of Witness.

The five songs exude a polished, full vibe that would fill arenas. Bare bones metalcore/hardcore isn’t quite the norm these days – just check out bands like ERRA, Shreddy Krueger, Vanna, and Sirens and Sailors to get a feel for what I mean. Indie/progressive influences shine through at times too, most notably in the title track – an almost 5 minute long song with an ambient, electronic intro backed by Ben Ault’s cleans. “The Arsonist” and “Dreamers” are a bit more run of the mill, but solid. “The Loyal Ones” rearranges well in it’s acoustic form, sounding more along the lines of the acoustic versions of “Heralds” and “No Rival” from Wolves at the Gate than the bare bones “Fearless” from For Today. The one thing that might grate on some people are Ben Ault’s cleans, which feel forced at times. Being a versatile vocalist in heavy music is rare these days – and having seen them perform many months ago I can confirm that what you hear on record is more or less what you hear live.

So, don’t sleep on this record.

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wLdF40KUQlw&h=297&w=450]

Score: 3.8/5

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