UNSIGNED AND UNHOLY: BLOODSHOT DAWN, EPISTASIS, AVIYN

Today let’s give a listen to three solid unsigned bands to recently hit the MS inbox: Bloodshot Dawn, Epistasis and Aviyn.

• Bloodshot Dawn: It’s hard to believe this U.K.-based aggressive melodeath band is still unsigned; the songs are memorable, the playing is crisp, and this video is really impressive (even if a standard warehouse affair). These guys remind me a lot of Arch Enemy, Carnal Forge and even a little God Forbid. Stream their entire self-titled new album at Bandcamp and watch the video for “Vision” below.

• Epistasis: This is some weird shit, barely metal, almost like experimental atonal jazz played on brass instruments (and drums) with metal undertones. The Path Less Traveled Records has decided to help the band out and has set up a Kickstarter to raise a very modest amount of money. Donate if you enjoy it.

• Aviyn: These Oklahomans rely a little too much on breakdowns/chugs and good cop / bad cop vocals for my personal tastes, but there’s a good foundation here… clearly these guys have some talent and could take it in a more creative direction if they so choose. I hear some Misery Signals influence here, which I dig.

-VN