Hollow Stare’s latest single, I’m Barely Alive, is a powerhouse of raw emotion, intricate musicianship, and sheer intensity. The track, taken from their new album Diary Of A Madman, showcases the duo’s ability to blend the melodic with the brutal in a way that feels seamless and natural.
Opening with a haunting orchestral intro, I’m Barely Alive immediately sets a cinematic tone. The atmosphere is dark, almost foreboding, but as the heavy guitars and pounding drums enter, the track quickly builds into something much larger. Daniel Friedman-Posner’s meticulous production shines through as layer upon layer of sound creates a wall of noise, while Ben Fleming’s guttural vocals tear through the mix, delivering a performance that is both aggressive and emotionally charged.
What makes I’m Barely Alive stand out, however, is the balance Hollow Stare strikes between brutality and melody. The track shifts from punishing breakdowns and relentless riffing to soaring, melodic passages that offer brief moments of beauty amidst the chaos. It’s this contrast that makes the song so captivating, pulling the listener through a journey that feels both cathartic and epic.
Lyrically, the song is a deeply personal exploration of heartbreak and emotional turmoil. Fleming’s performance is dripping with pain and frustration, adding a layer of vulnerability to the track’s heavy sound. The combination of raw emotion and technical proficiency gives I’m Barely Alive a depth that goes beyond standard deathcore fare, appealing to fans of both aggressive and progressive metal.
For those who appreciate bands like Lorna Shore or Periphery, Hollow Stare brings a fresh perspective with I’m Barely Alive. It’s a track that refuses to be boxed in, offering something powerful, melodic, and unapologetically heavy—a definitive statement from a band that’s only just beginning to carve its mark.
Press Photo by Sisi Burn
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