REVIEW: Iron Form - Cut From Cold Blood

UK metalcore newcomers Iron Form burst onto the scene with their debut EP, Cut From Cold Blood, a blistering 20-minute assault of relentless drumming, sharp guitar work, and emotionally charged vocals. With a pedigree that includes members of Svalbard, Handcuff, and Eulogy, the band brings experience and intensity, channeling the raw energy of early 2000's metalcore and post-hardcore. While the EP doesn’t always push boundaries, it still offers plenty of moments that showcase Iron Form’s raw potential.

From the opening moments of 'New History', it’s clear that Iron Form isn’t holding anything back. The track explodes immediately, setting an unrelenting pace with pummelling drums and forceful guitar riffs. The solo towards the end adds a welcome flourish, briefly breaking up the relentless intensity before the song slams to a close. It’s a solid introduction that establishes the band’s sound, even if it treads a well-worn path. 'Spirit Rain' introduces a short spoken-word section before launching into its razor-sharp instrumentation. The guitars are relentless, feeling almost like a barrage of bullets, piercing through the track with precision. However, the song struggles to maintain momentum, settling into a pattern that feels repetitive. While undeniably aggressive, it lacks the dynamic shifts needed to make it stand out among the EP’s offerings.

'Vengeance Prayer' picks up the pace again, delivering a fast and punishing assault. The brief slow down halfway through, featuring another spoken-word section, attempts to add a dramatic pause but ultimately feels more like a brief interruption rather than a moment of true impact. The track does its job but doesn’t leave a lasting impression, failing to bring a distinct identity to the table. The EP’s standout moment comes with 'Become The Blade', a track that fully embraces its mix of melodic hardcore and alternative metal. The metallic riff that kicks off the song is an immediate attention-grabber, and the subtle technical flourishes in the background add a welcome depth. The cymbal-heavy drumming enhances the overall energy, making this one of the more memorable and well-crafted tracks on the record.

Closing with the titular 'Cut From Cold Blood', the EP ends on its strongest note. The introduction builds anticipation before diving into some of the most engaging instrumentals on the record. The interplay between the guitar and rhythm section feels particularly tight here, and the instrumental passage around the two-thirds mark adds a unique texture that sets this track apart. It’s a glimpse of Iron Form at their best - blending intensity with just enough nuance to keep things fresh.

Cut From Cold Blood is an aggressive, tightly executed debut that establishes Iron Form as a band with plenty of potential. While some tracks blend together, the EP still delivers in terms of sheer energy and strong musicianship. Tracks like 'Become The Blade' and 'Cut From Cold Blood' hint at exciting possibilities for the band’s future, showing what they’re capable of when they add more dynamics to their songwriting.

For fans of early 2000's metalcore, this EP is a solid entry that pays distinct homage to its influences, whilst attempting to carve out a space of its own. With time and further refinement, Iron Form has the tools to develop into something even more distinctive. Cut From Cold Blood is a solid first effort, but whether it’s a lasting one remains to be seen.

Score: 5/10

Cut From Cold Blood will be released on March 21st 2025 via Church Road Records.

Words: Jason De Mendonca

Photos: Iron Form