Single Review: Blindspott - R.I.P. (Rest In Pieces)

 

New Zealand's very own Blindspott have returned for the first time in 15 years with their ferocious new single, ‘R.I.P. (Rest In Pieces)’. This song is, in many ways, a perfect summary of Blindspott’s sound. Relentless heaviness and progressive riffs combined with melodic vocals and guitar. Nearly 20 years on from ‘Nil By Mouth’, Blindspott has shown that they can still crank the heaviness and energy of their music through the roof and that they are still on the forefront of New Zealand rock. 


 ‘R.I.P.’ begins with a filtered guitar intro before the full band comes lurching in with a heavy, progressive sounding riff. Things mellow out as Damian enters on vocals. The song has a great drum sound, almost resembling 90s bands like Pearl Jam and Red Hot Chilli Peppers, with a tight, piccolo snare. The driving bass riff keeps the energy in the second half of the verse, before Damian’s scream of “take this knife” brings back the heavy section. ‘R.I.P‘ has an awesome, anthemic rock chorus which will be great live. The heavy guitar riff enters halfway through the second verse, which builds the intensity leading into the chorus. Damian has great range in his vocal ability, from melodic singing to screaming, which is really shown off in this song. The song’s bridge features frantic mumbling, before returning to the chorus, finishing with a heavy outro, with cymbal chokes over the vocal line “say my name”. 


‘R.I.P’ packs a heavy punch, and has a great melodic aspect to it as well, which makes it destined to be a rock radio hit. The anthemic nature of the song is sure to make it a fan favourite, as well as a highlight in Blindspotts live set. It is safe to say that Blindspott has delivered us a ferocious comeback, as well as one of the best New Zealand rock singles of 2021.

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