‘Awakened’ by Stepping Sideways is fast, melodic metal with some decidedly eclectic tendencies. The band describes itself as, “the innate ability to step from this world into the next. Immerse yourself in the story of Stepping Sideways,” they urge. “This is only the beginning.” It seems like these guys take cues from a lot of metal’s various subgenres. On the one hand, the rhythm section – especially the percussion – definitely leans toward metalcore, thrash and death metal. Guitar-wise, the group seems to lie somewhere between neo-classical shred and bouncy NWOAHM-style core chugging. Over all of that, the lead vocals provide a clear, concise narrative and an accessible way in for those less acclimated to the world of metal. These guys are really on top of it. Check out ‘Awakened’ below!
Noah Zucker // IG – @zucker.n // Twitter – @zuckern13