When the Southern California band Initiate plays down-the-middle hardcore, they’re absolutely exemplary at it. Their riffs bring bounce and energy, and frontwoman Crystal Pak has an absolutely elemental scream. But Initiate haven’t really made down-the-middle hardcore since the release of their incredibly sick 2020 EP Lavender. Instead, Initiate inject their style with soaring melodies and unexpected instrumental touches, and their scope sets them apart. They don’t make new music too often, but whenever they do, I get excited.
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