This up-and-coming Progressive Metalcore unity returns with their first full-length album, a forceful, profoundly human document that reminds us why metal, at its best, is the ultimate vehicle for spiritual connection and catharsis.

Hailing from the rain-soaked streets of Seattle, Washington, the electrifying Progressive Metalcore unity Oathbound channels the raw, unfiltered emotion that defines the human condition, including heartbreak, loss, addiction, and trauma. No subject is off-limits. Mixed and mastered by Aaron Chaparian (As I Lay Dying, Bleeding Through, Chimaira) at Iron Audio, the excellent Colors In Grey is the follow-up to their 2024 debut EP Until it’s Gone, representing the sound of a band formed of Chris Fox on vocals, Taylor Harper and Viktor Schultz on the guitars, Steve Schwarz on bass, and Travis Morlan on drums operating at an undeniable peak, a forceful, profoundly human document that reminds us why metal, at its best, is the ultimate vehicle for spiritual connection and catharsis.

In the dark intro Origins, the band crafts a melancholic ambience perfect for enfolding our souls before we face the title-track Colors in Grey, already exploding into sheer aggressiveness to the desperate roars by Chris supported by the melodious riffage by Taylor and Viktor, kicking off the album on a high note. Then in the hard hitting Set Adrift, Travis smashes his drums nonstop while his bandmates make sure there’s first-class Metalcore for everyone; and featuring Patrick Franiuk of Metalcore band Mémoire, Misunderstood is one of the most visceral and obscure of all songs from the album, with their clean and harsh vocals bringing to the music a stylish paradox, followed by The Masks We Wear, a decent song albeit a bit confusing at times, despite showcasing their excellent Djent-infused riffs.

Back to a more traditional Metalcore approach, it’s time for the band to invite us all to jump up and down with them in Insomniac, with Chris once again taking the lead with his raspy roars; whereas Searching For An Answer reminds me of some of the creations by Swedish Metalcore band My Dear Addiction, in special the pounding drums by Travis and its overall vibe. They put the pedal to the metal and bring forward the type of Metalcore we old school metalheads love the most in Hold On, feeling very aggressive while still showcasing their more melodic side, before they end the album with an overdose of progressiveness flowing from the axes by Taylor, Viktor and Steve in False Ideals, leaving us eager for more of their music in a not-so-distant future.

For Oathbound, Colors In Grey is only the beginning. With eyes set on nationwide touring and continued creative evolution, their mission remains the same, to offer catharsis, hope, and connection through music that speaks from (and to) the soul. Hence, you can join them in such a unique exploration of emotions through heavy music by following them on Facebook and on Instagram, by subscribing to their YouTube channel, by streaming their music on Spotify, and of course by purchasing their caustic new album by clicking HERE or HERE. With Colors In Grey, their message is clear. Even in life’s darkest moments, there’s a silver lining – and a life still worth living.

Best moments of the album: Colors in Grey, Misunderstood and Hold On.

Worst moments of the album: The Masks We Wear.

Released in 2026 Eclipse Records

Track listing
1. Origins 1:31
2. Colors in Grey 3:23
3. Set Adrift 3:50
4. Misunderstood 3:57
5. The Masks We Wear 3:28
6. Insomniac 3:40
7. Searching For An Answer 3:26
8. Hold On 4:50
9. False Ideals 3:55

Band members
Chris Fox – vocals
Taylor Harper – guitar
Viktor Schultz – guitar
Steve Schwarz – bass
Travis Morlan – drums

Guest musician
Patrick Franiuk – vocals on “Misunderstood”