EP Review: Going Off – Kill List II (Self Released)

Manchester’s heavy hardcore punk quintet ‘Going Off’ will release their new EP ‘Kill List II’, out 31st October.

Has it really been so long since Going Off picked us up, slammed us down the ground hard, and left us feeling bloody, bruised, dazed, a bit in love? That was Kill List in 2023, then there was the daring Die Fast in 2024, and now the hardcore noise mongers are back with even more violent, ugly, and harsh music.

Seven tracks that will leave you feeling as though you have been punched in the head over and over again. Just like the first Kill List, this sequel is filled with venom, punk-infused hardcore venom, and just like the first Kill List, it kicks so much ass. All because Going Off believe in themselves wholeheartedly and with that, comes a potency that can only come from confidence. Considering its sees the band channelling grief, rage, and resilience, their intense focus makes a lot of sense.

It’s not the only remarkable aspect of this EP though, especially as this isn’t just a repeat of what we already heard with the previous releases. Going Off have some new and creative ideas, albeit warped by hardcore intensity. The breakdowns, the two-step flashes, the metallised ferocity, and daringly anthemic punk bursts of energy, it’s a fast-paced, but hard-hitting effort.

My personal favourite track is Brain Melter. Not just because it’s so damn chunky sounding, but because it becomes quite groovy as it goes on. Though I’m also a bit impartial to the throat-tearing vocal performance in To Lose a Limb and the stompy, gurning, and vicious finish of Salvation. To be honest though, there’s no excuse to not give the whole thing a listen as it’s barely 10 minutes long overall. It’s well worth it too.

Going Off – Kill List II Track Listing:

1. Change My Life
2. Brain Melter
3. Mourning
4. No One Loves You
5. To Lose a Limb
6. Scum Friend
7. Salvation

Links

LinkTree | Bandcamp | Instagram