My inbox is inundated every day with press releases of new bands hitting the music scene. Every one claims to be unique and to bring something different to the music world. In the case of New Jersey melodic metalcore band Counterfeit Culture that claim is actually true.
For me what makes a band resonate is the chemistry between their lyrics and their musicality. Counterfeit Culture presents a powerful and poignant blend of those two pieces on their three track EP Deathwish which is set to be released on August 1st. Deathwish themes around the around domestic violence and drug abuse, sending a positive message of love and hope to anyone that really listens.
Counterfeit Culture members Nick Broglio [vocals], Patrick Robertson [guitar], Elijah Pagan [bass], and Chris Smith [drums], met just a couple of years ago in high school, but they have quickly created a local buzz in New Jersey and performed with top-notch acts taking their inspiration from multiple genres.
“Of course, we’re a heavy band, and we’ve got those down-tuned breakdowns. At the same time, there are melodic riffs and singing with layers of vocal harmonies. It’s this mix between alternative and metal,” Broglio says.
The Deathwish EP kicks off with the first single “Apothecary” which is a cool and complex song featuring multiple musical styles. There are the harsh hardcore growls and rumbling guitar riffs but also the hypnotic harmonies and melodic moments. This lyric speak up against domestic violence and the combination is really very powerful.
“The lyrics are about pretending to be someone you’re not and trying to sell yourself as someone you’re not,” explains Broglio. “The music video tells that story of domestic abuse. We gave it visual representation. It’s a girl in this abusive relationship, making it seem normal. Obviously, she’s in pain, but she doesn’t show it.”
The second track, “Second Soul”, examines “the self-destructive death of one’s former self” as guitarist Robertson puts it. Another great combination of styles but this one I found to be even more dramatic and intriguing. I loved the intro because it almost felt like it was going to be a softer rock song and then it picked up into a frantic pace and then came Broglio’s growls. You could almost feel the pain and passion – the confusion and despair. And then came the more melodic moments that seemed to illustrate clarity and healing.
The final track, “X”, tackles the horrors of drug addiction through a tightly woven sonic assault, “X” is definitely my favorite track on the EP. The combination of all of the musical elements on this song were just masterfully mixed to create an impactful piece. Plus – I’m a fan of drummers in general and there are some drum moments in this song that made me giddy.
“Each of our music videos/songs have a message pertaining to an issue in society, (drug abuse, domestic abuse, etc.), and our vision is to be more than just musicians, we want to be activists. The four of us want to help shift focus onto more important issues and prevent further damage to those who are lost or unheard,” says Broglio.
It is that passion and purpose combined with a dynamic and intricate sound that sets Counterfeit Culture apart. Don’t miss this EP. It has the potential to have a major impact on more than just your eardrums.
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“Apothecary” ft. Ricky Armellino (Official Lyric Video):
