Pathfinder – Powerless (2024 Single) [Review]

A Chaotic Homage to Old-School Deathcore

Pathfinder, hailing from Ontario, Canada, has unleashed a chaotic and nostalgic single, “Powerless,” on July 24th, 2024. This track nods to the early days of Myspace deathcore, blending intense energy with a fun, unfiltered approach. The result is a song that’s both aggressive and enjoyable, showcasing the band’s talent and passion for the genre.

Pure Chaotic Energy

The chuggy riffs and downtuned tones create a raw and powerful sound. Furthermore, the song’s structure is all over the place, keeping listeners on their toes with unexpected twists and turns.

Vocal Dynamics

In “Powerless,” the vocals are a standout feature. Josh Willms delivers raspy, shrill highs that cut through the mix. Additionally, the layered vocals add depth and intensity. The contrast between the harsh screams creates a dynamic and engaging listening experience.

Riffs and Breakdowns

Moreover, Marcus Arar on guitar and vocals, along with Stephen on guitar, bring the riffy and bouncy elements to the song. The guitar work is intricate and heavy. The breakdowns hit hard and the breakdown in “Powerless” is particularly long and heavy. Although there is some feedback or possible peaking of effects during this part, it adds to the raw, unpolished feel of the track.

Fun and Silly Music Video

Interestingly, the music video for “Powerless” is pure silliness, featuring the band having a BBQ with friends. This lighthearted approach contrasts with the song’s intense sound, showing that Pathfinder doesn’t take themselves too seriously. It’s a refreshing take that adds to the overall enjoyment of the song.

Lyrical Themes

“Powerless” tackles serious themes, addressing societal issues and personal struggles. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and determination. For instance, lines like “We are drowning in the lake that our forefathers made” and “I won’t give up, I’ll make it out of here this time” resonate with a powerful message of resilience and defiance.

Band Members and Production Credits

• Vocals: Josh Willms
• Guitars & Vocals: Marcus Arar
• Bass: Brandon Lucking
• Drums: Jason Drossis

Credits:

• Recording: Luc Chiasson, Marcus Arar
• Mixing: Luc Chiasson
• Mastering: Luc Chiasson
• Artwork: Marcus Arar
• Video: Marcus Arar, Reinier Vandenbosch, Vince Anastasi

Influences and Comparisons

“Powerless” by Pathfinder brings to mind early Upon A Burning Body, Attila, and Brojob. The track also evokes the underground vibes of bands like Sacrifice The Sacred and Shoot On Sight. This blend of influences makes “Powerless” a standout track that bridges old-school deathcore with a fresh, modern twist.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “Powerless” by Pathfinder is a fun, chaotic, and nostalgic track. It pays homage to the early days of deathcore. With its aggressive riffs, dynamic vocals, and silly music video, the song captures the essence of what makes deathcore so enjoyable. Despite some minor production quirks, “Powerless” is a must-listen for fans of the genre.

Listen to “Powerless” by Pathfinder on TotalDeathcoreTV and dive into the chaotic world of old-school deathcore.

I listened to this track using the OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones Studio Monitor & Mixing DJ Stereo Headsets with 50mm Neodymium Drivers. These affordable headphones deliver exceptional sound quality. Check them out here: OneOdio Headphones.

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