I, Of Helix is a 5 piece metalcore band from Orange County that is definitely on the rise. Recently the band won their round in the Road to the Sphinx at diPiazza’s which could include a deal with Sumerian Records and a spot on either the All Stars Tour or The Summer Slaughter Tour. I, Of Helix is Nate Mead (vocals), Isaiah Pritchard (guitar), Ramone Valerio (bass/vocals), James Strang (drums) and Mason Brammer (guitar). The lads have an 8 track self released mini album out now called “Isolations” that recently became available on ITunes. The album was recorded at Juggernaut Studios by guitarist Isaiah Pritchard and the artwork was provided by Michael Steinheiser.
Opening the disc is “Theory of Expansion” which starts off so intense that you almost explode with energy. The song has great guitar riffs and 2 different screams plus the hard hitting double bass drumming. The song is what you’ve come to expect from most bands in this genre but with one exception. Where most bands rely on the clean vocals to take their songs to the next level I, Of Helix has found a way to take you there with 2 variations of screaming vocals. The deep growls are outstanding and show the range Nate Mead has come as a vocalist. If this song does not make you move then you must be dead. “Lullaby” is not what one might think of from the title. This song rips right from the start. The guitar, bass and drums send your heart pounding right from the start. The clean vocals are good as are the screams. The drums and bass stand out during this track and the hook will make you sing a long. To take a note from the band on this one “CONGRATULATIONS!” this song has everything you desire from a hardcore metal band. You can definitely hear their influences Between the Buried and Me and August Burns Red on this track. “I: Isolations” is a short breakdown on the album at only 1:29 it sets a dark melodic mood in the middle of the album. “XXIX (ft. Rory Rodriguez)” showcases another up and coming band Dayseeker. Rory and Nate make a good vocal team on this one. This is another song that has everything a metalcore fan wants and is produced well. The breakdown line “We came from different sides of the Ocean, in search of strength” is memorable and will capture fans for years to come. At times during this song you can hear Casino Madrid, Southern Lights and Author & Finisher. The longest song is “Horizon Minds” at just under 8 minutes. Most metal fans will like the length of the song but unless you’re a fan of clean vocals with your heavy guitar you will not enjoy this for the duration. At times during the slower parts this songs seems to be somewhat off. James Strang is a good if not very good drummer but sometimes during the slow breakdowns of this song he seems a little inept. Of all the songs on the disc this is the one that lacks the usual punch of I, Of Helix. “Evade the Equinox” brings the tempo back up and rips you apart from the start. The song is just 2 minutes of complete mayhem. “II: Accretions” is the 2nd breakdown point of the album. Another melodic musical exploration albeit slower than “I: Isolations” this one captivates your darker imagery. The final track is “Witness the Son Rise” a fast song that showcases what these lads do so well and will keep you wanting more of I, Of Helix.
At the end of the day the 8 tracks of “Isolations” is a perfect introduction to I, Of Helix. Each member of this band is really good at their respective instruments. If you have not had the chance to see them live or download this album you are missing out on one of the best up and coming band’s in metalcore. They will be performing at Treasure Fest 5 at Pirate Bar in Santa Ana with Casino Madrid, Destruction of a King and more on February 17th.
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