What's Happening?
Seattle-based sludge and hardcore trio Great Falls has announced their new album, 'The Bite That Grows Up,' set to be released on October 16 through Neurot Recordings. Alongside this announcement, the band has released the lead single, 'Nicotine In The Spine,'
and opened preorders for the album. Great Falls is composed of underground veterans Demian Johnston (guitarist and vocalist), Shane Mehling (bassist), and Nickolis Parks (drummer and vocalist), with additional instrumentation from frequent collaborator John Schork of Half Majesty. The album, which spans forty minutes, was engineered and mixed by Scott Evans, who also worked on their 2023 Neurot debut, 'Objects Without Pain.' Brad Boatright at Audiosiege handled the mastering, and Johnston contributed to the album's illustration and design. The lead single 'Nicotine In The Spine' features additional vocals from Peter Clement Lund, the late guitarist and vocalist of the Danish band Kollapse, who recorded his parts shortly before his passing.
Why It's Important?
The release of 'The Bite That Grows Up' is significant for the U.S. underground music scene, particularly within the sludge and hardcore genres. Great Falls, known for its heavy sound and experienced members from influential bands like Kiss It Goodbye and Undertow, continues to contribute to the evolution of these styles. The album's release through Neurot Recordings, a label recognized for its commitment to experimental and heavy music, further solidifies the band's standing and reach within the U.S. and international music communities. The collaboration with artists like Peter Clement Lund, even posthumously, highlights the interconnectedness of the global heavy music scene and the lasting impact of individual contributions. This release provides new material for fans and critics, potentially influencing emerging bands and maintaining the vitality of a niche but dedicated musical subculture in the United States.
What's Next?
Ahead of the album's release, Great Falls is scheduled to embark on an Eastern North American tour with labelmates Kowloon Walled City. This tour will allow the band to perform new material from 'The Bite That Grows Up' to audiences across the United States and Canada, building anticipation for the album's official launch on October 16. Following the release, the band will likely engage in further promotional activities, including interviews and potentially more tour dates, to support the album. The reception of the lead single, 'Nicotine In The Spine,' will also provide an early indication of the album's potential impact and critical success. Fans can expect to see how the new tracks integrate into their live performances and how the album is received by both critics and the broader heavy music community.
Beyond the Headlines
The album's creation, particularly the inclusion of posthumous vocals from Peter Clement Lund, adds a poignant and deeper layer to 'The Bite That Grows Up.' This aspect transcends a typical album release, transforming it into a tribute and a testament to the enduring connections within the music world. It underscores how artistic collaborations can continue to shape projects even after an artist's passing, imbuing the work with additional emotional weight and historical significance. This element could resonate deeply with listeners, fostering a sense of community and shared experience within the heavy music scene. Furthermore, the band's consistent output and touring schedule reflect the dedication and resilience required to sustain a career in underground music, highlighting the passion that drives artists outside of mainstream commercial success.
