Review: “VantaBlack” by Vanta NC (1st Anniversary)

On the 1st October 2024 Raleigh North Carolina Deathcore skull crushers Vanta NC announced themselves to an unsuspecting world with a debut EP that left us wondering what we’d just heard. It was the work of five arch criminals in guitarist duo Conrad Crounse and Drew Greene alongside vocalist Dylan Barham, bassist Rob Volkov and drummer Chris Winterholler, a quintet who were on a mission to destroy venues in a tri-state area. So how does it hold up a year down the track?

The down-tuned chugs that burst into the Deathcore groove of title track “VantaBlack” are a neck snappers delight when accompanied by the dark introspective lyrics from vocalist Dylan Barham in a single, bleak and disturbing verse. It may only be seventy one seconds but its enough to let you know that Barham not only needs catharsis but perhaps should be locked inside a padded room in a straight jacket for his own safety. His performance on “Spit” is almost feral with raspy moments making us think of Robert Meadows from A Life Once Lost as his venomous tirade burns caustically. A seamless transition from Deathcore groove to Downtempo mid cut is perfectly executed, the band knowing how to pummel the discerning listener into submission with their offerings. Despite this being a first endeavor there is nothing to suggest this is a demo with both the guitar tone and drum sound in particular being nailed to perfection. A guest vocal appearance from Phillip Gibson of Richmond, Virginia Metallic Hardcore crew Chained graces “Dirt King“, a cut of violent anguish in mental turbulence which will resonate with anyone who has suffered from anxiety or depression. Again the guitars are as weighty as the lyrical narrative, a depiction of inner turmoil followed by a chilling sample that has to be heard [7.5/10]

Track Listing

1. VantaBlack
2. Spit
3. Dirt King (ft. Phillip Gibson of Chained)

“VantaBlack” by Vanta NC is out 1st October 2024