The problem with side projects and so-called supergroups is that they are almost always going to be compared to the members’ main endeavours, and this does not always look favourably upon the new project. The important thing is to be more than the sum of your parts, and many projects miss the mark in that regard. Hundred Suns is made up of Cory Brandan (Norma Jean), Chris LeMasters (ex-Dead and Divine), and Ryan ‘Legs’ Leger (ex-Every Time I Die). With a line-up like that you’d expect a high quality output.
Luckily for all involved, Hundred Suns more than deliver on ‘The Prestaliis’. The opening (and title) track builds eerily before bursting into a slow and pummelling riff, Cory’s powerful voice following the strumming pattern to the point where it almost becomes a chant. The vocals are impressive throughout the album; it is clear that an effort has been made to keep the screaming to a minimum and instead explore Cory’s notably dynamic range. When the screamed vocals do appear they’re used sparingly and effectively, particularly the refrain of “If you stick around I’ll show you the world” on ‘Partner-Predator’ and the intense ending of ‘Last Apology’.
Musically, ‘The Prestaliis’ packs a serious punch. The guitars are thick, meaty and positively drowning in groove. It’s a post-hardcore album at its core but it flirts with djent and nu-metal elements without ever getting caught by the clichés of either genre. The most obvious comparison to make is Deftones — ‘Diamond Eyes’-era if we’re getting specific. This is true of both the musical texture of the record and Cory Brandan’s vocal delivery. Despite the clear influence, Hundred Suns have definitely forged their own sound and feel like an imitation of no one, especially not the bands the members came from.
‘The Prestaliis’ was made possible by the opinion-splitting Crowdfunding platform, and what’s crystal clear is that the crowd was right to want these musicians to come together and create something new. This extremely accessible record will appeal to Norma Jean, Dead and Divine and Every Time I Die fans, sure, but there is no doubt that it has enough of its own merits to win Hundred Suns a fanbase all of their own.
LIAM KNOWLES