Source: Album Artwork
It’s been six years since The Qemists released their second album, Spirit In The System, way back in 2010. Since then, the band have added two frontmen to their lineup, in the form of Olly Simmons (formerly of Collisions) and rapper Bruno Balanta who join the electronic rock/drum ‘n’ bass outfit to form a quintet. The resulting beast is Warrior Sound, eleven tracks of heavy rock-tinged drum ‘n’ bass, packed full of party anthems that are begging to be heard live.
The Qemists certainly like a collaboration or two (or several in this case) with vocal appearances from the likes of Crossfaith’s Kenta Koie, Hacktivist and even UK grime artist Ghetts. Whereas on previous albums the band depended heavily on collaborations due to not having a permanent vocalist, on Warrior Sound the collabs are more like the cherry on top of an already delicious pie.
Storming straight in with uptempo anthem ‘Jungle’ featuring rapping from Hacktivist, The Qemists marry electronic rock with big beat swagger. Single ‘Run You’ is one of the album’s highlights, featuring the band’s signature pulsating, bass-heavy sound, seamlessly blending elements of rock, electronic and drum ‘n’bass with catchy melodies, while Simmons powerful rock vocals set it all off brilliantly. Things get a bit heavier on ‘Anger’, which has a sexy little offbeat groove and Kenta Koie’s mix of clean and screamed vocals are a perfect choice for the song. Generally Warrior Sound is a lot more rock influenced than the previous two albums, which is a welcome step in a heavier direction. ‘Let It Burn’ is another stomper of a tune, with a more aggressive feel and harsh vocals.
If we are to pick out any faults with this album, it’s mainly that the whole record is on the formulaic side. You know what to expect on each track – synthesised guitars, breakbeats and bass drops – but who cares when it’s this good? On Warrior Sound, The Qemists rise from living in the shadow of their frequently compared to predecessors Pendulum to deliver the album of their career. Do yourself a favour; crank this one up to 11, get the glowsticks out and have yourself a bedroom rave until The Qemists come to blow the roof off festival season.
