South UK metal outfit Torchbearer have today unleashed the blistering new single ‘Vindication’, a soaring behemoth of a track paying tribute to Mo (bassist)’s late brother who died under police restraint; “Vindication is about ‘wanting to live for him and make him proud of me” – https://li.sten.to/torchvindi
Vindication, produced by Charlie Wilson at Monolith Studios, drops in anticipation of the band’s forthcoming record ‘Warrior’ coming 2023:
“This record covers personal topics such as bereavement, anxiety, trauma, insecurity and self-accountability with the overarching theme of not just endurance, but triumph. Torchbearer do not wallow in despair, but aim to provide a source of hope. This is why “Warrior” was a fitting title-track as the lyrics offer a summary of overcoming these adversities by meeting them head on with courage and conviction, like a warrior heading into battle.” – Andy
For the accompanied video, Torchbearer partnered with Pete Woolven, guitarist of Graphic Nature (rude records). Framing the imagery within Windows Media Player was to remind listeners of their roots and the journey they’ve been on as a music fan, and to connect with the new track like they would have back in the day with bands who brought them up. A throwback for those old enough to remember a time before YouTube and Spotify: https://youtu.be/2Xmb6dt8TO4
Formed in 2016 by guitarist/vocalist Ollie Gould, bassist Mo Bashir and vocalist Andy Mansell, with the current drummer Ollie Sitford having joined in 2021, the London / South Wales quartet draw influences ranging from Every Time I Die to Pantera, combining in-your-face riffs, vicious vocals and catchy melodies to create a distinctive sound, with lyrics addressing racial prejudice, police brutality, corruption, confinement and mental health, leading to a blistering, visceral listen. This sound to date has been captured on the band’s two EPs and one studio album Solace, which was released in 2022.
Torchbearer’s relentless ethos and unstoppable approach as an unsigned band has led to nationwide tours, making a name for themselves with their powerful live show, which eschews gimmicks and technology in favour of full-throttle, high-energy performance, and are on tour now: www.torchbearer.life
