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Fit For An Autopsy - ‘The Nothing That Is’

Six albums into their career, Fit For An Autopsy has released their seventh album, The Nothing That Is. This band isn’t just any deathcore outfit; with their 2022 album Oh What The Future Holds, they established themselves as one of the most influential forces pushing the genre’s boundaries. So when they announced The Nothing That Is, fans eagerly wondered what direction they’d take next.

The opening track, “Hostage,” was the album’s first single, setting the tone with a blend of djent and deathcore. Its infectious riffs and Pat Sheridan’s clean, melodic backing vocals perfectly complement Joe Badolato's fierce growls. This mix achieves what many peers haven’t: a balance of genres with clean vocals that enhance rather than overpower, hooking the listener and priming them for the album’s full journey.

A few tracks later, “Weaker Wolves” shifts to a more laid-back approach compared to the album's earlier intensity. Sheridan’s vocals take the spotlight here, delivering a powerful punch and building atmosphere as the song progresses. Then “Red Horizon” brings back a darker tone, opening with hauntingly low guitar riffs that set a chilling mood before Badolato elevates the tempo, driving the song forward.

Both the title track, “The Nothing That Is,” and “Lurch” stand out. “The Nothing That Is” brings a new level of intensity, combining gritty riffs and an aggressive vocal interplay between Badolato’s raw growls and Sheridan’s clean vocals. Together, they create a heavy symphony that wouldn’t be possible without the full band’s contribution, from the relentless drumming to punchy guitars and bass. “Lurch” is unforgettable, with an intro that builds atmospheric tension around the lyrics, leading to a massive, explosive climax, making it one of the album’s most memorable tracks. Though the album is packed with headbanging moments, “Lurch” leaves a lasting impression.

The closing track, “The Silver Sun,” is unique, showcasing a softer, atmospheric side of the band. Clean vocals lead the first half, crafting a beautiful sonic landscape that feels complete even without harsh vocals. When the harsh vocals finally hit, the song takes you on a thrilling ride. While it has its flaws, those are quickly forgotten as the song crescendos, especially during the piano outro that softly fades away. It’s a stunning way to conclude the album.

Though The Nothing That Is might not surpass Oh What The Future Holds, it’s a worthy addition to their discography, showing just how far Fit For An Autopsy has come. With Will Putney’s expertise as mixer and producer, the sound is polished, but the real magic lies in the band’s chemistry and their willingness to push each other creatively. This collective drive keeps their sound fresh, ensuring they avoid mediocrity and consistently deliver exceptional albums. The Nothing That Is may very well mark the next step in the sound that the future holds for the band, proving once again that Fit For An Autopsy prioritizes quality over quantity, making deathcore more than just “loud music” but a powerful medium for storytelling.