The modern metalcore quintet BRIDGE OF SOULS, hailing from Nancy, France have independently released their debut album "Iris" on September 30, 2022. The album is described on the band's press release as: Iris is the messenger goddess of the Greek gods allowing the connection between gods and humans. However, iris is also the circular and colored part of the human eyes through which it receives information from what surrounds us. In this album, we put ourselves in the place of our goddess to explore human soul. Also, in the skin of human who faces the gods. Human is on the center of our lyrics, and we describe these states of mind, their behavior, and the consequences of their actions. We talk about soul in pain, abandonment, depression, self-search but also about the state of the world in which we live. It's a rather dark album but which always leaves a hint of hope and redemption. This sounds very much like a concept album even though the band does not give it that tag, so I'll put on my French beret, grab a bottle of champagne and a croissant and dive into the unknown.

The beautiful aspect of reviewing a debut album from a band that I really know very little about is trying to figure out which way they are headed musically. The band's press releases can point you in a direction, but ultimately seeing if they develop their own style and sound or fall into a "formalized trap" is the challenge. "Iris" has a lot of powerful modern metal elements showcased in their nine songs. They deliver some blistering, hulking riffs and hooks backed by well laid out drums and solid, rocking bass lines. The backdrop of synchs and keyboards are well placed and are embraced by enthralling, sublime choruses. The vocals are where they engaged me the most, I've never been a fan of the death metal guttural growl, or "cookie monster vocals" as I label it, but the episodic fusion of clean, death and thrash wailing throughout are what keep this album from being just another "we've heard this before" band. The most diverse and unique song is "Jail" with a sinister, almost "rap" style of vocals and beat. My favorite song is "Perfect Storm" as it delivers an atmosphere of a darkened  assault of an intoxicating journey of pummeling beats and searing melodies.

Overall, this is a very good debut effort from BRIDGE OF SOULS, they deliver enough hard-core elements and raunchiness, and lyrically it definitely has some balls. This is a great start, and hopefully they will expand and venture outside the box a little more on future projects. I know I will be on the lookout for the next release.