Severe:Zero - The Failsafe

When word got out that Severe:Zero were tampering with their line up there resided an air of nervousness among their fanbase as to whether or not the new look band would be capable of crafting the same adrenaline-fuelled, hook-splattered, rousing brilliance.

After all, we’re not talking about the run-of-the-mill North Devon College indie start up here. Severe:Zero are a band of utterly inspiring talent, using their seemingly innate musical ability to imbue their music with compelling melodies and addictive rhythms. Their hooks are razor-sharp talons digging into your heart, your mind, whatever part they can.

The Failsafe is the first fruit bared since the line-up shuffle and mutes any remaining doubt to the point where you feel a bit silly for even contemplating any adverse effects. If anything, The Failsafe’s off-kilter rhythms, soaring melodies, and rabid guitars exhibit a band who are completely assured, who walk with an unpretentious but knowing swagger.

A heartbreaking middle eight and Luke Bond’s vocals, delivered as ever with goosebump-bringing passion, bear the hallmark of everything that makes this band so good, and it doesn’t take any great prescience to see The Failsafe joining Weapons Grade, Silence On The Radio, and Global Disaster as a live favourite.

Severe:Zero continue with their unrelenting knack of sculpting jaw-droppingly intricate, utterly accessible, and face-smashingly brutal punk rock. To say that they are a credit to the region is by no means overstatement, and their talent surpasses many a nationally-cradled FM-friendly guitar band.