TRACK ANALYSIS: GUILLOTINES – “LIES BENEATH THE SKIN”; FOR FANS OF HATEBREED AND BIGGIE SMALLS
Within the first 5 seconds of Guillotines’ new single “Lies Beneath The Skin,” I found myself astounded by the numerous nu metal and rap rock influences heard just from a single clean guitar line and vocal hook. My mind immediately resorted back to the first moments of hearing Korn, P.O.D. and Linkin Park. The glory days.
Guillotines bill themselves as a rap metal band quite clearly— from the 90’s gangsta rap album art, to the spray paint font of their logo. The idea of rap metal has really only ever been done well a few times, but always with the potential to reach a larger audience and break down barriers. Everyone wants that Linkin Park/Jay-Z moment. In the last few years Sylar, From Ashes To New and even the likes of Attila and Emmure have really stepped up to the plate to keep this movement going. I’d say at the very least, Guillotines add substantial fuel to that fire. “Lies Beneath The Skin” finds a steady rhythmic flow in its verses, finds time to throw in guttural Jonathan Davis-style growls, and a down-tuned guitar pounding breakdown before switching back into an earworm of a chorus with massive power chords and pop-punk drum transitions.
Listeners will find the sound here nostalgic, but also new and relevant. It doesn’t mingle with trap, attempt an EDM drop, or mumble even once. As a matter of fact, this is to Guillotines’ advantage— the grizzled, rough edge of their music gives it an attitude and vibe similar to 90’s gangsta rap. The sound absolutely fits the image. The versatility of the vocalist, Furius Supreme, is the most impressive feat heard here and I’m interested to hear how he chooses to tackle future material given his expansive abilities. The web weaved about deep, dark mental illness is also a topic that just about any listener of heavy music can grasp onto. I hear major crossover potential here and if Guillotines opt to include some big names like Ice T or Tom Morello in the future, I think it would grab even further attention.
After giving this single a few spins, consider my seatbelt buckled in to the ride Guillotines are taking us on. Let’s hope they take the shortcuts on the road to an album release. Until then, stream “Lies Beneath The Skin” below.
STREAM: Apple Music / Spotify
