Releasedate:   12-12-2025

Belgian band Behind Bars have been active since 2015, gradually building a reputation on the European metal and hardcore circuit through relentless touring and energetic live shows. Their 2025 EP “As I Wait For Death” arrives as a short but intense follow-up to their previous album “All in Due Time”. Musically, the release sits somewhere between metallic hardcore, groove metal, and thrash, delivering five tracks of aggressive riffs, breakdowns and socially conscious lyrics.

The EP opens with “P.A.I.N.”, which immediately sets the tone. The track relies on heavy riffs and pounding drums, accompanied by Ian Huyskens’ raw vocal delivery. It’s the kind of song designed for the mosh pit: direct, aggressive, and packed with gang-shout moments that invite crowd participation. Lyrically it touches on resilience and pushing through personal struggles, a recurring theme throughout the record. The song does exactly what a hardcore opener should do—hit hard and get the listener moving.

The fourth track, “Where Truth Lies,” shifts toward social commentary. Built around groovy riffs and a driving rhythm section, the song critiques misinformation and propaganda in modern media. Musically it feels tight and energetic, though it also shows one of the EP’s weaknesses: while the band is clearly competent, many of the riffs feel familiar within the genre.

Closing track “Anthem” is exactly what the title suggests: a straightforward hardcore sing-along. With stomping rhythms and chant-ready vocals, the track aims for unity and camaraderie. It’s less complex than some of the earlier songs, but it works well as a finale, ending the EP on an energetic and positive note.

Overall, As I Wait For Death is a solid but not groundbreaking release. The band clearly knows how to write heavy, crowd-pleasing hardcore songs and execute them with conviction. However, originality is not the EP’s strongest point—the riffs, breakdowns and structures often feel very familiar to anyone who listens to bands like Hatebreed or Lionheart. That said, the tight musicianship, strong energy, and relatable lyrical themes make it an enjoyable listen for fans of the genre. It may not reinvent, but it proves that Behind Bars understand exactly what makes the style work.

Line up:

• Ian Huyskens – Vocals
• Steven Vandermosten – Guitar
• Andy Philips – Bass
• Bjorn Van Olmen – Drums

Links:

Bandcamp