Long-time fans will recognise the band’s signature aggression and raw energy, but also notice both a subtle yet distinct shift in their overall sound.
‘Burn’ makes it clear that this isn’t business as usual. After the release of their previous album 'Severance', they have taken more of a metallic structure, with tighter riffs and polished, almost mechanical intensity.
The guitar work leans into classic Machine Head territory, chugging, palm-muted riffs build with a slight militaristic repetition and the chant of “Burn, burn, burn”. This has one designed purpose: total pit annihilation.
Jay Valentine’s vocals add a darker, more layered intensity, blending in with but also contrasting the cleaner production. Still, hardcore staples remain; gang vocals, two-step rhythms, and chaotic urgency prove they’re still the same band at heart.
‘Burn’ is no doubt a bold and brutal reintroduction to the next chapter of Guilt Trip. They are evolving, but they are in no way abandoning where they came from, just refining what a hardcore band can and should be.
Ana Joy King
Image: ‘Burn’ Official Single Cover
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