FILTH
Southern Hostility
Crowdkill Records
FILTH, hailing from North Carolina, boldly blend hip-hop elements into their deathcore framework, creating a fusion that's both intriguing and divisive. Anticipation was high for their latest release, Southern Hostility. However, despite touring with acts like SLAUGHTER TO PREVAIL and LORNA SHORE, this album sees FILTH stumbling rather than soaring.
From the outset, "Infidel" and the title track signal a departure from their previous sound. The hip-hop influence is more pronounced. Yet, tracks like "Stay Gutter" leave listeners uneasy, with uncomfortable sampling and jarring transitions.
"Shit Kickers" briefly interrupts the flow before diving into "Gutter". It highlights the album's main pitfalls. Over-compressed production overwhelms the senses, with bass overpowering the mix and drums fading into the background. The record succumbs to cliched moments that detract from its impact.
Lyrically, Southern Hostility doesn't just fall short, it cliff jumps minus a parachute. Most of the tracks offer uninspired lines, failing to captivate listeners. Another mashup genre that is confused and what to use for its music hybrid pronoun to identify with.
FILTH has evolved (backwards) in their sound. Their execution produces a record that flatlines. Southern Hostility and its issues overshadow any chance of a solid release. The only punch it packs is disappointment. It needs refinement in every single area.
FILTH must navigate the ever-changing landscape of modern deathcore with precision and innovation if they want to stay relevant. I hope they listen to their previous records and learn from this mistake. They are so much better than this record and fans deserve better.
2.5 Out Of 5.0
