SONG REVIEW: Eonia - "Isolation (feat. Carson Mcjimsey)"

Eonia revitalize the sound of melodic metalcore with “Isolation”

Written by JD Walker

Melodic metalcore is the preferred sound for many that are into heavier genres of music, though the sound and style have recently given way to the emergence of more rhythmic, hardcore-inspired bands of recent years. The sound of Misery Signals, early Erra, and Breakdown of Sanity seems to be fading into yesteryear, but not if Eonia has anything to say about it. In their new single “Isolation”, the Michigan-based duo drive the sound that brought metalcore to the forefront of the alternative music scene and relight the fire that set the scene ablaze.

The song features instrumental composition and production from Gabriel Smith while leveraging the lyrics and performance of Kenny Flores on vocals. Right off the rip, the song drives with choppy and heavy rhythms while filling the space with ambient leads and chiming melodies. Through the chorus, the juxtaposition of Flores’ brutal vocals with Smith painting the intricate guitar parts with a fine brush adds to the solvency of the song. Smith isn’t afraid to show off his guitar chops either, with blistering leads and dissonant chords plentiful throughout the piece.

Where “Isolation” really excels is not only the performance, but the composition of the song. While the single maintains a fairly straightforward approach to structure, the song sees multiple changes in tone and even tempo. “Isolation” also features vocals from Carson McJimsey of Until The Unknown and a wonderful, heavy duet between him and Flores. The overdriven nature of the rhythm compliments the aura of Smith’s ambient compositions, keeping the listener engaged and garnering the need for multiple listens. 

Melodic metalcore is a trend in alternative music that certainly needs revitalization and a proper revisit, and Eonia is kicking that off immaculately with “Isolation”. The powerhouse duo from Grand Rapids are prolific in their mission, having released 4 singles and an EP previously along with their latest effort. Considering the trajectory of the song and the band, there’s no doubt that they could foster the revitalization of the under-appreciated genre of melodic metalcore.