Refiner has made good on their promise: a new EP is upon us! Christopher Adam’s Christian metalcore project from British Columbia, Canada is back with another round of songs showcasing their unique take on a familiar style. In the same vein as the prior EP, it consists of two songs that will have companion instrumental tracks on the official Rottweiler release. Let’s see how this morsel compares to the previous.

A short version of the review may read, “if you liked the last one, you will like this one.” The metalcore style that Refiner serves up has the same telltale characteristics: synths, blackened hardcore vocals, and deep rumbly guitars. There is also an exacting edge to the notes, making the offkilter chop and stop feel robotic. It is industrial to the point that the only human aspects are the vocals and the choice of harmonies to pull on the listener’s heartstrings.

“upside uʍop” starts the EP off with some odd rhythmic guitars building up into a heavy riff that serves as the backbone for the song. There are some episodes of topsy-turvy rhythms and textures that break up the focus, however the chorus brings focus with the underlying riff. I liked the windows where the solo bass came through. The sharp edge in the notes give the song an industrial edge.

“Mistake” provides some contrast. It opens with spoken word and a bass riff that traces a tender chord progression. Synths fill in the notes of the chords giving a melancholic air to the song. Oddly enough, the synths reminded me of a Vanvidd album that I was listening to recently with its dark ambient atmosphere. The song is a variation on this chord progression showcasing different uses of layers and rhythms which provide different flavors. While the first track was hard hitting, this one provides more heart.

More so than “Return To Dust,” I hear experimentation in searching for one’s voice. The two-song two-step is definitely an interesting strategy, but it leaves me wanting more and to be honest gives the artist a small canvas to work on. That said, Refiner with its blackened edge and industrial flourishes has a unique voice in the pantheon of Christian metalcore that will have broader appeal than the rather saturated traditional metalcore market. With these two EPs down, it will be interesting to see where Refiner goes from here.

Rating: 8.0/10

Written by Sean Bailey

Tracklist
1 – upside_uʍop
2 – Mistake

Refiner is:
Christopher Adam – everything

Release Date: May 16, 2025

Record Label: Rottweiler Records

Discography:
2022: Firewalker – EP
2025: Return to Dust – EP [review]
2025: Mistake – EP

Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Bandcamp (Rottweiler) | Bandcamp (Firewalker)