THE FINITE BEINGS
A Shell Of What Could Be
01. Untamed
02. The Virus
03. The Shade
04. Time Slave
05. Hope is Sleeping
https://www.thefinitebeings.com
The New Jersey Faith-driven alt-rock trio, The Finite Beings, have unleashed their latest musical offering, a powerful 5-song EP titled A Shell Of What Could Be. Comprising a fusion of introspective lyrics, captivating melodies, and dynamic instrumentation, this EP presents a complicated journey through the realm of faith, hope, and the human experience. Let’s dive into the individual tracks that make up this compelling musical endeavor.
The EP kicks off with “Untamed,” a thrilling and energizing track that quickly sets the tone for what’s to come. Michael Nicholas’s multifaceted talent shines as he juggles the roles of lead vocalist, lyricist, and drummer. His emotive vocals and thought-provoking lyrics drive the song’s message of breaking free from conformity and embracing individuality. Backed by Hunter Kino and Donny DePaola’s skillful guitar work, “Untamed” is a rousing anthem that beckons listeners to fasten their seat belts and get ready for quite a ride!
“The Virus” takes a darker turn as The Finite Beings delve into the struggles we all faced during the pandemic. “To connect is to disconnect. I’ll pray in my home. I’ve washed my hands clean of this and the future’s unknown.” With haunting melodies and powerful instrumentation, the track explores themes of isolation and uncertainty as we all faced a common enemy who shows absolutely no remorse. The band showcases their musical prowess with a well-crafted arrangement that culminates in a cathartic release of emotions. Certainly a highlight of the release and a strong choice for the single.
Embracing a more contemplative mood, “The Shade” exhibits the band’s versatility and showcases their ability to evoke strong emotions. Michael Nicholas’s delivery delves deep into the complexities of seeking meaning and purpose amidst life’s uncertainties. The interplay of Donny DePaola and Hunter Kino’s guitar work lends an atmospheric quality to the song, immersing listeners in a state of introspection. This could easily be mistaken for a Soundgarden or Alice In Chains outtake.
With “Time Slave,” The Finite Beings shift gears, delivering a more spacious and ethereal track. The band reveals that the have a few more influences and their record collections go a little deeper than we may have initially thought. You can tell they’ve spent a fair amount of time listening to Pink Floyd as this song really spreads out in the most wonderful way. It’s not easy to pull off a track like “Time Slave,” and The Finite Beings hit this one out of the park without missing a beat.
Closing out the EP, “Hope is Sleeping” takes the listener on a melodic and lyrical journey of revival and resilience. Michael Nicholas’s evocative drumming and vocals are the backbone of the song, while Donny DePaola and Hunter Kino’s heartfelt guitar work elevates the emotional impact. The track lands somewhere between the high energy of the first 3 songs and the more laid-back haziness of “Time Slave,” resulting in a wonderful way to wrap up the EP. Musically, the first half of the song has hints of Smashing Pumpkins, interwoven guitar parts over a strong yet sparse vocal. Drums kick in and the production does a great job of sonically building both horizontally as well as vertically. Impressive, and worthy of multiple listens.
In A Shell Of What Could Be, The Finite Beings have crafted a cohesive and compelling EP that showcases their musical prowess and faith-driven messages. Each song offers a distinct experience, blending always strong vocals, poignant lyrics, and skillful instrumentation. Nicholas’s emotive vocals and solid drumming, complemented by DePaola and Kino’s guitar artistry, create a signature sound that is uniquely their own.
They’ve managed to strike a balance between introspective and anthemic, taking the listener on a spiritual journey that touches the soul. A Shell Of What Could Be serves as a testament to the band’s growth and maturity, making it a must-listen for both devout alt-rock enthusiasts and those seeking music with depth and real substance. With this album, The Finite Beings have certainly made their mark, leaving us eager to see what the future has in store for this refreshing band.
