Do you remember what it was like when you first heard something that gave you a sense of "these people know something I don't"? That's the feeling I got shortly after starting this album. "Mutated" by CROSTPATHS starts off with a killer song. It lays out a wide range of tantalizing lyrics that you get lost in. "Rampage" has a pretty laid back vibe, but is not lacking anything that makes it a banger. There is a great use of riffs and the vocals are heavy and powerful. All while holding an overall sense that things are going to change. A lot of music is influenced by the world around us, and this EP is definitely not an exception to those influences. The album touches nicely on some deep topics in only a few short songs.

"Hiding In Plain Sight" tells a story of a human that seems lost in his own emotional world. The vocalist spits hip-hop influenced verses about what his life has become and what he has to deal with on a daily basis, while still holding down that metal vibe we need in a metal album. This song is great because it draws a picture of the mental health crisis going on in the wake of the world. If you listen close enough, it may reveal the band's opinions as to why these issues are at bay in the world. Just why are we on the verge of societal collapse? Why is it so hard to be alive? Is the world falling apart or falling together? I can't tell you, but this song may be able to help you form an opinion.

Now, if you're in for a more rebellious feel, maybe hop on over to the third song on this EP, "Defiant". This track will have you rising out of your seat and nodding your head in triumph. It reaches into your soul to pull at the part of you that is defiantly perfect and to remind you that you are here for a reason. Engulfing yourself in the lyrics of this song will have you believing in yourself before time is up. And if that isn't enough of a reason for you to give this band a listen, I'm not sure anyone will ever be able to convince you that you should.

So, if you are looking for something to listen to on a short drive to the store, or just a new band to add to that workout playlist, CROSTPATHS needs to make it into your library of music. This album will be out on November 27th, but they have other music to hold you over until then! Happy listening!