Review: I, The Oracle – Traitor (Single)

Artist: I, The Oracle
Album: Traitor (feat. Shawn Spann) – Single
Rating: 3.5/5

Just a few months after announcing their name (Seeking Solace)/line-up change, WV’s metalcore prodigies I, The Oracle are back.. and not with a fizzle but with a BANG! Several weeks ago, the guys announced that they would be making their return to the scene but no one knew, to what extent. 3 weeks ago, they broke their silence with the news that they are preparing their new EP Shattered Memories by releasing their most impressive single to date. Along for the ride, they’ve brought in Shawn Spann (I, The Breather) as a guest vocalist. The aforementioned single, “Traitor” is a huge testament to the blood, sweat and tears that they’ve poured into this new material.

The single, overall, is fairly impressive but may take listeners some time to get into. If you’re a fan of older metalcore, “Traitor” will especially appeal to you, as it recalls a lot of the same methods used in the genre’s hey-day. As the track starts up, you MAY expect some room to breathe… possibly a little instrumental section? Well, you’re sorely mistaken as drummer Chris Shockley pummels you into submission from beginning to end. On the strings, guitarists Austin Roberts and Ian Guthrie give you pretty standard metalcore riffs but that’s perfect for the fast-paced nature of the track. Vocally, Sam Hayes shows exactly why the band recruited him as their vocalist. From his powerful screams to his soaring cleans, the man is mastering his art. For added intensity, Spann delivers one of his best guest vocalist performance to date, short-lived but wholly effective on the listener.

Lyrically, the track focuses on a relationship gone stale. Assumedly, the female subject committed an act of infidelity and betrayed the trust of the one she claimed to love. As such, Hayes assumes the role of the male subject and tells her “I would now bury you down, your body entombed love. The vultures can have you as they circle the skies above” indicating that his feelings for her have more than dissipated.

Overall, “Traitor” is a very enjoyable track. It shows the WV metalcore outfit at their finest and shows that they are well on their way back. Be sure to check out the track by watching the video below and keep your eyes peeled for the rest of Shattered Memories, coming soon! The band also just announced a partnership with Pure Deathcore!