Painted Scars – Kintsugi

Kintsugi is the debut album by Belgian rock/metal quintet Painted Scars, fully formed in 2023. The line-up of Painted Scars consists of; Jassy “Hyacien” Blue (vocals), Kevin De Brauwer (backing vocals & guitar), Yannick Rottiers (guitar), Jens Van Geel (bass) and Bram Vermeir (drums).

Short after its formation, the band released their first single called, “Life and Alive”. It received very positive reviews by local magazines and social media outlets. Next natural step, apart from organizing a show in their home town of Erpe-Mere, is to release an album, or EP which basically is the case with Kintsugi. Thus, Kintsugi is their eagerly anticipated debut EP containing five new tracks and the aforementioned “Life and Alive” as a bonus song endning the EP.

A loud scream from female vocalist Jassy Blue introduces the opening song named “Glow In The Dark”. The twin guitars of Kevin De Brauwer and Yannick Rottiers kick in, driving the track forward with pounding riffs, powerful energy and almost a punk vibe. It continues just as powerfully with the following one called, “Won’t Give Up”. Main difference from this track, compared to its predecessor, is that “Won’t Give Up” is more relying on drums, while “Glow In The Dark” is a guitar/riff driven song. Nevertheless, there’s a plenty of headbanging riffs and once again the powerfull vocal performance by Jassy. “Knock Knock” is more of a traditional hard rock song where they continue to showcase their ability to craft memorable, coherent and well-written songs. “Liquid Gold” (watch the video below) is another breakneck speedy tune with booming riffs and catchy chorus. This particular song is my absolute favourite, and a stand-out track that is probably the most suitable for a live performance. Next one called “Won’t Give Up” is pretty emotional and touching song, inspired by Jassy’s own struggles with Cystic Fibrosis. This aggressive yet uplifting song carries a strong message, and it’s mainly drums-driven song and a bass guitar offering different layers and textures. “Freedom” is a bit less personal track, but still with a strong lyrical message urging listeners to live life on their own terms. Once again it features some powerful, unforgettable and radio-friendly vocals, and overall a rapid and speedy instrumental parts. At the very end comes a bonus track, “Life and Alive”. It’s a rhytmical song with a very strong riff, rambling guitars, and equally strong bass-line. I think this song fits perfectly as the ending of this interesting and convincing EP! Production is radio-friendly, polished and edgy, but still quite listenable and with a potential for further improvement.

To sum up; if you’re fan of female-led highly energetic blend of rock and heavy metal, with heavy riffing, blazing guitar solos, combined with melodic choruses and sing along moments, then Kintsugi is a highly recommended listen! This hard working and promising band is totally worth of your attention and support.

For more details on this relatively young and upcoming band from Belgium then visit https://www.facebook.com/paintedscarsband/