Album review: As Everything Unfolds – Ultraviolet

As Everything Unfolds' 2021 debut Within Each Lies The Other established the UK quintet as an exciting addition to a new wave of British rock that was thriving thanks to the emergence of bands like Holding Absence, Nova Twins and WARGASM. But whereas their last LP solidified them on the scene’s undercard, second full-length Ultraviolet is As Everything Unfolds’ play to join the heavy hitters. For the most part, it’s a knockout.

Opening with a title-track that starts out in a nu-metal vein before transforming into a modern metalcore slammer, it’s clear from the outset that As Everything Unfolds have upped their game. Impressive vocalist Charlie Rolfe in particular stands out, showcasing an array of inflections to her vocals that – particularly when her bandmates get heavy on tracks like the venomous Blossom – add a whole new dimension to the music. Guitarist Adam Kerr also deserves a mention for some brilliant playing, which helps tracks like Saint Or Rogue and excellent closing number All I’ve Ever Known to shine.

Ultraviolet also gifts us with As Everything Unfolds’ biggest chorus yet. Recent single Felt Like Home sounds positively huge when its hooks and gang vocals kick in, making for the kind of rock anthem that would sound right at home on the field of Download’s Donington Park.

There’s evidently more to come from these guys, and they’ll need to hone their output further if they’re to truly sit atop the current generation of UK rock artists, but for right now, Ultraviolet serves as an illuminating insight into a potent and accomplished band.

Verdict: 4/5

For fans of: Holding Absence, Dream State, Spiritbox

Ultraviolet is out now via Long Branch