Hutch checks out the latest offering from Manchester favorites… Beyond Salvation

Mancunians Beyond Salvation return with A Line in the Sand, their new EP which shows their strengths to all, interested or not. They are of course, MTRO alumni, having featured in the 2022 edition with their song Dead Behind the Eyes. Rapidly heading for their tenth anniversary, this is their eighth release in total, and they bring it big style. 

Now, I’ll admit that the crushing hardcore style vocals aren’t my bag, but these guys make one ferocious noise that crosses genres with ease. It maybe the powerhouse riffs, the thick heavy driving groove that underpins their sound, or the sheer intensity of their combined aural assault and a combination of death and groove metal, but Beyond Salvation certainly can’t be described as dull. 

Perhaps the thrash element which rarely drifts from their overall sound is the hook needed to keep the interest. The songs aren’t long, with the blistering Ghost Machine first up. It’s a high-intensity ride, with frantic riffing and Jon Pedley’s raging hardcore vocals immediately catching the attention. It’s a rollercoaster ride, with an aggression that is not only in keeping with the band’s style but essential to make this music that sounds authentic. It’s a wise opener, and its impossible not to nod along to. 

A change of tempo on No Way Out, as the band switch to a heavier chug that enhances the venomous vocal style. Pedley ticks every box here, with the backing vocals providing the right level of enhancement. There’s a possible hint of nu-metal in the groove, but no mistaking the punishing power that Beyond Salvation serve here; it’s a visceral slab that slaps hard. 

Taking their time to add layers has proved a wise decision, for the production and sound of these three songs never distracts from the business in hand. “You’re nothing but dead to me” screams Pedley as the final song Dead 2 Me kicks in. Subtly different to the previous songs, but retaining that angry stomp that is present throughout, it’s probably the most crafted track here with an intricacy that may not be apparent on first listen. 

With lyrical topics focusing on losing the negative aspects of life and embracing change, Beyond Salvation has produced a fine EP which deserves some attention from the thrash scene. It may not be pure in the finest sense of the word, but if you like high-paced riffs and shouty singing, then A Line in the Sand is one to add to that listening list. 

A Line In The Sand is released next Friday the 10th May… available in all the normal places!