REVIEW

Debut EP from Modern Failure, a mysterious masked artist emerging from Seattle, Washington.

While the core sound draws from the grunge-to-nu-metal-inflected heavy shoegaze popular on TikTok, this project clearly stands apart.

The defining trait is the guitar work—chainsaw-like noise unleashed in torrents—paired with feral, animalistic screams. When clean vocals enter the picture, the result is a striking contrast between ugliness and beauty that genuinely shines. This dynamic is most fully realized on #3 “Self Help” and #5 “Crash and Burn”. Relentless noise and screams assault the eardrums, only to be softened by sweet, languid vocals that gently ease the pain. The balance is exquisite—equal parts tension and release.

The production is undeniably rough, with inconsistent volume levels and a strong DIY feel, but the lo-fi rawness works in its favor, reinforcing the project’s character rather than detracting from it. There’s a strong sense that Modern Failure could evolve into something even more formidable, earning this EP a spot among the highlights.

Beyond the EP, several standalone singles are also worth exploring. For fans of masked acts, a collaboration with Deer Death is also available.