Beyond Extinction - Posthuman review

After seeing these guys open for deathcore giants Signs of the Swarm last year, I've been keeping my eyes on the Essex-hailing Beyond Extinction as one of the most exciting young bands in the UK extreme metal scene. One year on from their mental second EP Nothing More Wretched, they announced the anniversary edition featuring the brand new single Posthuman and an accompanying epic music video.

The track is pure brutality straight from the start, blending tropes of classic death metal with modern core influences, with bouncing, rhythmic guitar patterns and an enormous drum sound alongside Jasper Harmer’s signature raspy growls that fit so perfectly into their sound. While most of its 3 minutes follows a sludgy, somewhat-melodic groove, Posthuman’s climax comes at the final breakdown. Heralded by a brutal low guttural and a sudden slowed-down guitar, you're smacked in the face with dissonant distorted chugs from the depths of hell, riding over the familiar sounds of crashing cymbals and rapid double-kick rhythms that take us to the end of the track - a face-melting end to some solid modern death metal.

After the tragic passing of Beyond Extinction’s guitarist Zach Scott last year, the band have organised a poignant tribute to raise awareness of climbing male suicide rates. Taking place at Camden Underworld this August, it's sure to be a smashing night of brutal heavy music for an amazing cause, so please go and help out their fundraising efforts if you can.

If you can, tickets to a show in tribute for Zach are below. Their GoFundMe link is also below.

"On August 7th 2023, we sadly lost our brother and best friend, Zachary Scott, at the tender age of 20. Just over a year after this passing, we’re coming together to host “Never Forget Your Own”, an event dedicated to commemorating and celebrating Zach’s life. Join us for a day of bands that Zach had either toured with or worked closely with, who created some of our most cherished memories of Zach.

This even serves as a meaningful fundraiser for vital charities, aiming to raise awareness and funds to support individuals grappling with mental health challenges. Secure tickets now at The Underworld, with the option to contribute an additional donation. For those unable to attend, we’ve also established a GoFundMe to welcome contributions."