Vicious Rain’s debut album delivers youthful confidence and a clear understanding of modern metalcore. While demonstrably a box-ticking exercise to ensure all the necessary tropes hit at the right moment, the Swiss quintet’s assembly of electronic peaks, saccharine choruses and just the right quantity of bite is still professionally achieved. Crown Of Thorns digs in with an irresistible vocal line and Nothing Left centres around an effective breakdown, while the title track and Shadow Dancer’s exuberance are matched by impactful riffs and immediate hooks. Backed by a shimmering mix, what There Is Beauty… lacks in surprise and imagination is countered by an assured swagger and stirring pop-metal bravado. ■■■■■■
FOR FANS OF: Architects, Polaris, The Devil Wears Prada