It's been a minute since we last heard any new music from Firewalker. The last drop from the Boston hardcore band came in the form of a 3-song demo in 2022.
I was alerted today that Triple B Records will be releasing Firewalker's long-awaited sophomore album, Hell Bent, in late June, which follows their self-titled debut LP which came out in 2017.
“After being a band for nearly 10 years, we wanted to create an album that captured how we have progressed musically, both in terms of instrumentation and inspiration,” says guitarist Cecelia Halle.
“Since the beginning of Firewalker, we have drawn inspiration from Madball’s progression as a band: starting with the simplicity and genius of Ball of Destruction and developing towards heavier and metallic albums like Set it Off. With that in mind, the writing of the album drew heavily from our influences in hardcore and metal—trying to capture the spirit of late '80s metallic hardcore while holding true to our roots as a Boston hardcore band.”
With news of the album, Firewalker also released a track from the 9-song LP today called “Carry My Own Torch,” which the band calls a "fervid anthem about declaring independence from a toxic relationship."
Hell Bent was recorded, mixed, and mastered by drummer Sasha Stroud at her studio, Artifact Audio, in New York City. The album's running time clocks in at just under 20 minutes, which more hardcore bands these days should take note of.
In addition to Halle and Stroud, Firewalker is rounded out by vocalist Sophie Hendry, guitarist Sarah King, and bassist Rory Tito.
The cover art for Hell Bent was done by Tara Atefi of the band Phantasia:
Hell Bent will be out June 28th via Triple B Records (pre-order).
Firewalker live shows w / Grand Scheme:
5/24 - Richmond, VA @ Banditos
5/25 - Atlanta, GA @ 529
5/26 - Columbia, SC @ Blue Tile
Tagged: firewalker