REVIEW - Fates Messenger - aggressive metallic hardcore from the U.K.
Fates Messenger
Eternal War
Greyline Records
22 August 2025
First of all, let me say that I am not an expert on British metalcore and metallic hardcore at all, and I can say very little that is truly useful about the U.K. metalcore scenes. There is an interesting history involving this band, but I will not pretend to know all the details. I’ll provide the basics and then focus on the music. As I mentioned, there is an interesting story behind Fates Messenger, a metallic hardcore band that started in 2023. It seems that Paul Fletcher on bass, Will Romain on drums, and Aaron “Ron D” Darling on guitar used to be in a band called Romeo Must Die. Therefore, this is a six-song EP created by musicians who have spent years in the UK underground scenes.
Fates Messenger has an aggressive sound. It’s quite heavy, comparable to death metal, groove metal, or a chunky thrash style. It’s essentially mosh pit music. Sometimes fast, but often at tempos suitable for hardcore breakdowns. Some segments resemble thrash/death metal, so it makes sense that metal fans would enjoy this recording, not just hardcore fans. Overall, it’s characterized by an abrasive heaviness. Some riffs are catchy and slightly melodic, but don’t expect many melodies. It’s all about intensity and harsh vocals.
They cover the song “Master Killer” by Merauder, a well-known name among fans of post-1990 New York hardcore, though I do not know the music of Merauder in any knowledgeable way. What I can tell you is that this new version reflects the style of Fates Messenger: heavy, intense metallic hardcore with caustic vocals, which is also true of the original. Merauder was raw, angry, savage, New York street hardcore-metal. Frankly, their 1995 debut album still sounds impressive in 2025. Through their cover, Fates Messenger clearly and unequivocally shows where their roots are. The style of the other Fates Messenger songs remains intense, with the band delivering growling screams, pounding drums, and in-your-face, ugly-groove riffs that invite listeners into the mosh pit. It’s the rough, scathing sound of energy-driven hardcore blended with a metallic edge. It’s a compelling combination!
A warning for some audiences: I do not have the lyrics, as the information overlords did not provide access to me, but it appears there may be some profanity. Just an FYI.
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