On fantasise reality, layen_ delivers a potent blend of melodic metalcore, alternative metal, and shoegaze, resulting in an experience that’s both crushingly heavy and ethereally beautiful. Across five tracks, the EP explores introspection, relationships, and catharsis, balancing shimmering synth textures with aggressive instrumentation.

Opener ‘shoulder‘ sets the tone, introducing breathy atmospherics before erupting soaring melodies layered over thick guitars, immediately showcasing the Limerick act’s knack for dynamic contrast. ‘skin‘, featuring glasseyed, is as pop-sensible as it is heavy, wrapped in crystalline synths, underpinned by a a storm of distortion and screamed vocals, while ‘egoism’ leans into a groovy, nu-metal-inspired pulse, incorporating djent-tinged guitar work that adds weight to its emotional core.

One of the standout moments arrives with ‘all the same’, which strips back the aggression in favour of an acoustic-driven, ballad-like approach, building to an emotive, atmospheric middle-eight, beautifully coming up for air only to dive back in again. The softer sound expands the EP’s range, highlighting Layen_’s ability to weave delicate melodies into their otherwise forceful delivery. Closing track ‘enamel’, featuring crim, leans back into their heavier side, layering reverb-drenched guitars over pummelling rhythm, leaving the listener with a lasting sense of melancholic beauty.

While Fantasise Reality excels in its production—expertly balancing reverb, distorted, and layers of ethereal swashes —it does tread familiar ground. Certain vocal melodies and structures echo the likes of Loathe and Fleshwater, making it less groundbreaking than it is a refined iteration of the sound. Still, for fans of metalcore’s more melodic and electronic-infused side, Layen_ has crafted a compelling and immersive listen.