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Australian hyperpop-metal quintet Windwaker have released a new single, “Fractured State of Mind,” and it’s just what the doctor ordered for any broken-hearted metalheads out there. Simultaneously brutal and beautiful, the ferocious new track explores the aftershocks of lost love and is sure to be an instant hit for those in need of a therapeutic rage session. 

“Fractured State of Mind” opens with a brief ‘'90s-inspired electronic and synth sample before guitarist Jesse Croft, bassist Indey Salvestro, and drummer Chris Lalic launch the song into a violent mosh. Vocalist Liam Guinane breaks into the track with heavy vocals and sets the tone through commanding lyrics, “Now listen up / This is the perfect reminder.” 

Guinane continues to show off his vocal chops on the new track by smoothly transitioning from blood-chilling screams and scathing lyrics to clean vocals for the groovy, melodic chorus. Guinane’s range is put on full display as he sings lyrics from the song’s namesake, “With all these nights / Digging into my fractured state of mind.” Showcasing his talents as an astonishingly well-rounded vocalist, the track takes an unexpected turn when Guinane breaks into rap singing, “Hate to watch you go / Hate to watch you burn / Hate to live with this silence.”

Commenting on the new track, the band offered, “‘FSoM’ showcases a darker, heavier take on our sound without sacrificing the melodies and experimental sound design Windwaker is known for. It’s an anthem of frustration, born from battling the forces that try to dictate how we think and live. It’s a wild ride that dives deep into the chaos of a messed-up world,” the band adds, “yet still hooks you with a chorus that’s as catchy as it is rebellious.”

In addition to the new single, Windwaker released an accompanying music video which is equal parts gritty and nostalgic. Throughout the video, ‘90s-style visual effects are overlaid while the band delivers a high-energy, riveting performance. Contrasting greatly to the majority of “Fractured State of Mind,” the track and video end on a nostalgic note, as Guinane lays his wounds bare, conveys both physical and mental defeat, and sings a repetition of the phrase, “I can’t watch you go.”

The band has teased that more new music is coming soon, but in the meantime, Windwaker has three upcoming performances at Knotfest in Australia kicking off March 21. 

Watch “Fractured State of Mind” below.