Metal Stand-Outs Within Destruction invokes varied feelings and reactions, including “Where is Slovenia?”, “How do three people make so much noise?” I could not be more excited for their upcoming album ANIMETAL, slated for release on April 11th via Sumerian Records. In promotion of the upcoming record, Within Destruction pulled on our heartstrings with the heartfelt “INCOMPLETE” on March 5th. I gave it a listen to see if this red-hot group could outdo their last four singles.
The video for “INCOMPLETE” drops you into an animated world, kinda giving vibes from “Lo-Fi Beats to Study To” with lightly strumming guitar and soft singing filling the ambiance. In a swerve that fans may not expect from Within Destruction, the dreamy singing in the verse did not lead to more chugs and growls in the chorus, it led to the drums kicking into a rock-chorus featuring completely “clean” singing. Then, following the chorus, the screams we have come to love from Rok Rupnik make themselves known. This song is a pure metalcore track, and the balance of screams by Rupnik and singing by Howard Fang showcases the Slovenian metal group at its best.
Describing the storyline between the gorgeous video and their single, Within Destruction states:
"The song’s animated video delves into the heartbreaking journey of losing someone deeply cherished and the emotional turmoil that follows. It begins with a raw expression of grief and loss of purpose in one’s life, consequently, the protagonist's color palette is darker in the intro. As the song unfolds, it moves through various stages of mourning—loneliness, longing, sadness, and the haunting feeling of absence i.e. feeling in-complete. There are also moments of reflection, where the protagonist recalls fond memories, trying to hold on to the love that once was, but slowly realizing that they must let go in order to move on. The video also touches on the feelings of helplessness, questioning if there was more that could have been done. As the song progresses, a sense of acceptance begins to emerge. The protagonist starts to understand that healing isn't linear, and that while the pain may never completely fade, it's possible to find peace in the midst of loss. The song closes on a bittersweet note, suggesting that while the person may no longer be physically present, their memory will continue to live on, offering a sense of solace. The protagonist's color palette becomes vibrant towards the outro, suggesting a sense of resolve to their former "in-complete" self.
While the lyrics and video depict the loss of a loved one, they are also meant to be interpreted in a more general sense: "To truly live is to embrace the full spectrum of life, knowing that even pain has its place in shaping who we are and without sadness, joy loses its depth and without hardship, triumph feels hollow."
I love to see vulnerability and emotional storytelling in the predominantly “macho” space that metal often finds itself. I cannot wait to listen to the rest of ANIMETAL to see the beautiful vocal dynamic between Chang and Rupnik continue to shine. I have not heard a song quite like this, it will continue to be a mainstay in my daily listening. Also, this trio puts on a tremendous show. I viewed them on their latest tour with Born Of Osiris, and I cannot recommend checking out a show nearby enough.
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