SIN CIRCUS – “Sign Your Name”

From tapping solos to crooning vocals that would be right at home on the intro of “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” Sin Circus has taken the best that they have ever offered and made it even better, yet again!

Hot on the heels of “Light Years Away”, Washington metal legends in the making Sin Circus recently released their newest video in preview of their new studio album due later this year. “Sign Your Name” manages to fully showcase just how much the band has grown in all aspects, from complex compositions and time changes to cinematography.

The riffage wastes no time getting right in your face, carrying a vibe akin to early era Fates Warning in using non-standard power chords. The prog influence truly shows throughout the song, as it shifts from a straightforward thrash monster to almost a heavy metal shuffle of a circus barker to metal ballad cut time. No transition feels forced, no note out of place and the stark differences between each section only serves to reinforce the feeling that deep down, something is not right.

The song itself is the classic Faustian pact. A deal with the devil or a demon, fame and fortune or happiness, whatever the person desires in exchange for their soul. It even ties in some modern references to this, as in the series Supernatural, a contract with a demon is usually 10 years.

What truly sets “Sign Your Name” apart is the interlude. Going from all things metal to speakeasy era slow jazz to highlight the backstory – the very reason for the song – drives the point home that our hapless protagonist was at the end of his rope willing to do anything to be happy and the ensuing chaos that is this song was the end result.

The final scene also appears to make the comparison to life on the road as a band, with the members of Sin Circus doing the same – signing a contract in blood. It shows that a band is not some fly by night operation, but rather a lifelong commitment, made possible by the blood and sweat of the band. Burning the contract at the end makes it that much more significant, as it means it isn’t forced. They are a band because they want to be and it shows.

 

“Sign Your Name” tackles a sort of taboo few would ever consider – happiness at any price – and they do it in the same driving hard rocking style they have become known for. From tapping solos to crooning vocals that would be right at home on the intro of “Hallowed Be Thy Name,” Sin Circus has taken the best that they have ever offered and made it even better, yet again!

Check out “Sign Your Name” and keep an eye out for Sin Circus’ new album later this year… keep kicking ass! \m/

Sin Circus are:
Derek Unger – Lead Vocals/Bass
Devon Unger – Guitar/Vocals
Alex Black – Guitar/Vocals
Chase Hite – Drums/Vocals