Little is known about the cryptic duo known as Zetra, they’re based in the UK, they’re one of the most exciting new names in the British underground right now and the two corpse-painted figureheads of the band refer to themselves only as The Wanderers. Quickly rising through the ranks of the UK’s thriving alternative scene supporting artists like Creeper, HEALTH and Ville Valo, Zetra’s creepy aesthetic does little to overshadow their unique mix of throwback synth based goth rock and modern metal.
From opening track ‘Suffer Eternally’ Zetra elicit the same feeling as hearing bands like The Cure for the first time, bringing a fresh lick of paint to a genre with a rich history. Blending modern programmed drums and chunky guitar riffs with the lo-fi synths and detached vocal style of those iconic early goth records, Zetra bring tried and tested gothic tropes up to date in a way that fans of bands like Sleep Token and HEALTH will be quick to pick up on. Unlike a lot of other modern goth bands Zetra wear their admiration of the genre’s giants on their sleeve without sounding like a cover band, keeping one foot in the past and the other in the future.
While much of their sound lies in goth rock, Zetra are just as eager to bring in elements of other genres, particularly shoegaze and black metal. Despite the lack of a physical drummer, instead relying entirely on programmed drums, tracks such as ‘Suffer Eternally’, ‘Moonfall’ and ‘Holy Malice’ bring some metal inspired punch to the percussion, bringing a sense of urgency to the ominous, lilting vocals and lush synths. ‘Starfall’ particularly stands out with Svalbard vocalist Serena Cherry making a guest appearance to bring some suitably vicious screams alongside some booming drums and dramatic piano lines to give a unique edge to the band’s usually serene sound.
The Wanderers’ mix of dense keys and crunchy distorted guitars makes for a distinct and full sound that more than makes up for their lack of extra members. While the low end may not be as clear as with a dedicated bassist the duo make fantastic use of the tools at their disposal, using their harmonised vocals and arsenal of synthesisers to elevate tracks that would seem barebones if played by a traditional rock band. More deliberately paced tracks that would otherwise come across as unnecessary B-sides like ‘Shatter The Mountain’ and ‘Mirror’ shine due to Zetra’s dedication to rich atmosphere, making sure the album is overflowing with standout moments.
Throughout their debut album’s ten tracks Zetra manage to never outstay their welcome, strategically building their mix of atmospheric, synth-led goth rock and punchy modern metal and bowing out before becoming stale or overdone. Even more ambitious tracks like the dramatic ‘Moonfall’ or album closer ‘Miracle’ only stick around as long as they still have something interesting to say with their many layers of synths and droning overdriven guitar lines. Where another band would drag out tracks with a slower pace into monstrous, self-indulgent stoner-rock jams, Zetra obliterate their own egos and provide only what the song requires.
Rising above the current crop of spooky, horny bands with a keen eye for what made goth’s forefathers stand out, Zetra bring time tested conventions of the genre up to date with a clear admiration for its roots. With lush synths and chunky guitars backed by masterfully programmed drums Zetra are sure to take the gothic world by storm.