From the heart of Tāmaki Makaurau, New Zealand, comes Synthesis of Self, a band that’s swiftly carving out a name for itself within the melodious yet tumultuous realms of melodic hardcore and metalcore. Their journey, beginning in 2019, has seen them transition from the youthful exuberance of a band formerly known as Stacked, to a powerhouse ensemble that’s not only shaping the soundscape of Aotearoa’s metalcore scene but also redefining it.
Their latest anthem, “Decadence,” set for release this Valentine’s Day, promises to be a sonic tempest that encapsulates the band’s evolution. It’s a track that melds the ferocity of metalcore with the lyrical depth and guitar intricacies that fans have come to anticipate from Synthesis of Self. The band members, having honed their craft in the intimate setting of a bedroom, now stand on the precipice of a new chapter, ready to unleash “Decadence” with a raw intensity that’s bound to resonate across the North Island and beyond.
“Decadence” is a statement. Mixed and mastered by the esteemed Cody Brooks and recorded with a DIY ethos that runs deep in the band’s veins, it’s a piece that draws from the nuanced aggression of Counterparts and the technical prowess of Oceans Ate Alaska, all the while forging a unique identity that’s unmistakably their own.
The upcoming EP, from which “Decadence” is drawn, delves into the duality of experience—the bitter and the sweet, the chaotic and the serene. It’s a reflection on the transient nature of life’s trials and triumphs, and a beacon of hope for those navigating the depths of their own despair. This theme of impermanence, of valuing the present over mourning the past, is a poignant reminder of the band’s lyrical maturity and philosophical depth.
Synthesis of Self’s journey from Stacked to the powerhouse they are today is more than a mere name change.
It’s kind of a rebirth, a recommitment to pushing the boundaries of their genre, and a declaration of their ambitions.
The laughter and camaraderie of those early days in Alasdair’s bedroom have evolved into a shared vision for the future—a future where Synthesis of Self aims to carve out their own distinct mark in the metalcore scene, fueled by a blend of youthful energy and a growing musical sophistication.
Their rise has been meteoric, with accolades such as the Tāmaki Makaurau People’s Choice Award and multiple APRA lyric awards under their belt. Their tracks “Child” and “Truthless Lips” have resonated with fans and critics alike, securing a spot on Spotify’s esteemed Homegrown + Heavy playlist.
The band’s live performances are legendary, known for their electrifying energy and capacity to draw crowds by the hundreds. Synthesis of Self has not only shared stages with titans like Written By Wolves and Coridian but has also been the driving force behind some of the most memorable all-ages shows Tāmaki Makaurau has witnessed in recent years.
As Synthesis of Self gears up for the release of “Decadence,” their story is far from complete. Join their journey and follow the band via Bandcamp, Spotify and Instagram.
