The UK metal scene is witnessing the rise of a new player: Defects, whose debut album “Modern Error” is slated for release on May 24 via Mascot Records. This release marks a significant step for the band, positioning them in a lineage of influential metal bands such as Trivium, Killswitch Engage, and Bullet For My Valentine. While comparisons to these giants are inevitable, Defects brings their unique narrative and musical style to the table.

“Modern Error” stands out for its intensely personal themes. The album is a conduit for vocalist Tony Maue to process his childhood trauma of being taken into care. This emotional depth is a defining characteristic of the album, with songs exploring various aspects of personal struggle and resilience. The album’s narrative is further enriched by the individual stories of the band members, adding layers to the overall thematic structure.

Defects: Charting a New Course in Metal

Musically, Defects showcases a blend of influences, ranging from the aggression of Lamb Of God and Machine Head to the melodic sensibilities akin to Linkin Park, with elements reminiscent of Bring Me The Horizon’s experimental approach. The new single “Lockdown” reflects the band’s ability to integrate contemporary themes, in this case, the mental challenges of the pandemic, into their music.

The band’s journey to this point has been marked by notable performances and tours, we had the pleasure of seeing the band in their infancy at the Primordial General Mayhem in 2022 and their subsequent touring with metal veterans like In Flames has helped in refining their live show. The upcoming “Descending Into Madness” tour with Orbit Culture, along with appearances at major festivals like Download and Graspop, indicates the growing momentum in Defects within the metal community.

Sing Tony Maue reflects on the personal themes in the new album:

Primordial General Mayhem

Primordial Radio is hugely excited to announce that the unique and ever-evolving London 2-piece BOB VYLAN is set to headline the main event of the Primordial General Mayhem on Saturday 27^th April 2024, with four-piece, loud, unapologetic, rock outfit from Nottingham, AS DECEMBER FALLS confirmed as main support.

Also confirmed for the Saturday event is BLACKGOLD, SAINT AGNES, CALVA LOUISE and NORTH ATLAS with the opening band to be decided by the listeners of Primordial Radio.

“The personal themes in our album stem from my use of songwriting as a cathartic tool, not just for poetic expression. Having been taken into care at a young age, the trauma of losing my family and adapting to a new life was brutal. Music was my sole refuge in confronting these painful memories. I’ve come to realize that while we’re often pressured to strive for perfection, true perfection is unattainable. We’re all ‘defects’ in some way, and that’s what makes each of us unique.”

Defects’ music is imbued with a message of self-acceptance and resilience, a theme that is both universal and timely. Drummer Harry Jennings’ statement that “It’s fine to have bad days…everyone can pick themselves up,” encapsulates the band’s ethos. This message resonates throughout their work, offering a point of connection for their audience.

While Defects’ narrative and musical style are compelling, their journey is still in its early stages. The release of “Modern Error” will be a critical moment, potentially solidifying their position in the metal scene. As they continue to carve out their space in the metal scene, their trajectory will be an interesting one to follow with the band being on the cusp of a major breakthrough.

Pre-Order Modern Error here.