Deadwing - The Faceless

Words by Tom F-H. Photos by Heidi Coles.

Alternative rock with gothic sensibility and classic rock inspiration, Deadwing are back with their fourth single release – a showcase of all they can bring to bear, and a perfect example of the sound that defines them. The four-piece features the standard guitar, bass and drums setup, and each instrumentalist has roots in prog. However, it is the unique melancholy of vocalist Ellis’s voice that epitomises their gothic tones.

I wrote about Deadwing’s last single – ‘Post Mortem’, which was released in 2020, and ‘The Faceless’ shows that they have simply refined their music further. Deep, dark verses grow tension within the listener like creeping late-autumn frost. Soaring choruses toss it into the air, and a huge guitar solo from Dragos Colceriu brings it around and stomps on it in a truly melodically spectacular way. ‘It’ – and, of course, I am referring to the tension and expectation within the listener – does not disappoint, as Deadwing master both the evil, phrygian, and the hopeful chord progressions to create a product that will bring spookiness, groove, and performativity to a Halloween playlist near you.

As ‘The Faceless’ is Deadwing’s first release since venues have opened again, they celebrated their achievement with a music video, which released alongside the track, and was filmed at Pearlie’s Barn in the North Yorkshire countryside. Deadwing’s aesthetic shines through as much as their music, as they are drowned in shadow and long hair, making The Faceless’s meaning so much more relevant. The last time Pearlie’s Barn was featured on this blog was for a live release of psyche blues rock band Scruffy Bear. The contrast in style – both sonic and visual – is a great thing to see provided by a new venue.

The Faceless can be streamed all over the place, but as the music industry is incredibly cl*pped right now, please check out Deadwing’s website for merch, tour dates, and further ways to support them and Manchester’s scene. Thanks to Ellis for getting in touch with me, sending love to you all.