Scaphist – Benign
Scaphist – Benign
Self-Released
24/10/2025
Review by Oli Gonzalez
7.5/10
Scaphist. An ancient Persian method of torture. Or alternatively, the name of up and coming Metalcore act from the south of England. With ex-members of other prominent bands in the area, it’ll be interesting to see how this manifests within these 3-singles-combined-into-a-mini-EP.
‘Dark Trap’ begins with a somewhat dissonant guitar riff, designed to build tension and intrigue. In a live setting, this will undoubtedly be the band’s cue to SPLIT THE ROOM. This tension is eventually relieved in a huge cathartic burst as the rest of the band join in, to create a volcanic wall of sound! A wall of sound joined by the most fierce and gnarly of vocals, whether it’s the ear-piercing shrieks or demonic gutturals. Though as the song progresses, I feel these vocals may be a little too fierce and sitting too high in the mix. Attention is taken away from the background guitars and seems to mask some of the more subtle melodic work. Though once the groove locks in, this is the kind of song that will surely incite some chaos and two-stepping in a live setting! Simple yet brutally effective.
‘Benign’ is a much shorter, sharper burst at just under 3.5 minutes. The levels seem much better as the nasty guitar riffs earn the rightful place in the mix and get a chance to shine. I found my neck involuntarily rocking back and forth to this (and it is again now as I’m listening while typing this). If you only have time for one song, make it this. Especially with the stunning solo guitar work in the middle! That got a few replays!
‘Narcissist’ is another with some more punishing and neck-snapping grooves at the outset. Things get more feral towards the mid-section and the pace quickens significantly! The background synths add extra dimension and an alternative melodic focus, as well some more handy lead guitar clinics.
The production values are impressive for an unsigned band and far beyond the poor quality demos you often hear.
Overall, a brave effort that offers an insight into how stacked the underground scene in the UK actually is. Not likely to disrupt or cause a huge stir in the scene, but sticks to the tried and tested principles in the genre and executes them very well. And that’s coming from a guy who doesn’t often listen to this genre.
TRACKLISTING:
01. Dark Trap
02. Benign
03. Narcissist
LINKS:
Disclaimer: This review is solely the property of Oli Gonzalez and Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this review, unless you have the strict permission of both parties. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.
