Parkway Drive, the Australian metalcore titans, unleashed their fifth studio album, "Ire," on September 25, 2015, through Resist and Epitaph Records. Clocking in at 48 minutes, this powerful record blends the raw intensity of metalcore with the brutality of deathcore, showcasing Parkway Drive's evolution and ambition in the metal genre.
"Ire" is a cathartic release, fueled by the band's frustrations and passions, as frontman Winston McCall explained in interviews. The album's title itself is a reflection of the band's fiery spirit. With tracks like "Destroyer," "Vice Grip," and "The Sound of Violence," Parkway Drive delivers a relentless onslaught of heavy riffs, aggressive vocals, and intricate breakdowns that have become their signature sound.
The album opens with "Destroyer," setting the tone for the intense journey that follows. "Dying To Believe" and "Fractures" showcase the band's ability to blend melodic elements with their signature heaviness. "Writings on the Wall" and "Bottom Feeder" delve into darker, more aggressive territories, while "A Deathless Song" provides a haunting, atmospheric closer.
Parkway Drive's "Ire" is not just a continuation of their previous work but a bold step forward, demonstrating their growth and versatility. The album's live debuts at their tour kickoff in Perth in 2015 were met with overwhelming enthusiasm, further cementing the band's status as metal's most ambitious act. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, "Ire" offers a thrilling and powerful listening experience that encapsulates Parkway Drive's unyielding energy and musical prowess.