EP Review: Higher Walls – No End (Self Released)

The London based hardcore quartet Higher Walls will release their brand-new EP, ‘No End’ on April 25th, 2025.

Hardcore, but not quite as you know it, Higher Walls are unique band within the scene, and challenge so many norms that you dare not pay attention to them.

I love this EP. It’s as simple as that. I love the intensity of it, the venomous approach Higher Walls have, the chaos they unleash, and how they aren’t your traditional hardcore band, even if they have plenty of traditional moments. Six tracks, six absolute ragers, and six examples of why this is going to be up there as one of the best EPs of the year.

There’s an inherent danger to opener, History’s Eyes, as though Higher Walls are barely in control of their sound and at any stage it could get loose and cause so much devastation. Not only do they sound so pissed off, but the unique instrumental aspects (manic guitars, polyrhythmic drumming and technical bass) and group vocals shouts make it (and the EP as a whole) so much more impressive.

Don’t panic though, if you want spitting and snarling ferocity, it is an EP that delivers that too. Cloak & Dagger is one such hardy and hefty hardcore beast that vibrates with aggressive power. It just so happens to be balanced out by bursts of groove that gives it modern accessibility. Then there is Thorns, which is absurdly fast and savagely heavy. The kind of track that leaves with a few bruises. Before A Harrowed Wisdom and Collateral Damage show just how much focused and ionate intensity exists on this EP. Higher Walls are a force and this is an EP that thrills.

Especially when it ends in such spectacular fashion. So Much, For So Long, For So Little is the EP’s apex, and an outstanding anthem for all who stand against injustice. A raucous banger filled with wicked intent and aggression. It is an ‘in your face’ listen, manic and meaty, but with excellent flashes of groove too. They couldn’t have ended the EP in a more impressive way.

Higher Walls – No End Track Listing:

1. History’s Eyes
2. Cloak & Dagger
3. Thorns
4. A Harrowed Wisdom
5. Collateral Damage
6. So Much, For So Long, For So Little

Links

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