Kansas City's World Engine have been steadily making waves since their formation in 2020, but their debut full-length album, ‘Coded Names’, proves they're ready for the big leagues. Blending classic rock aggression with a modern, electronic sensibility, the band, built on the talents of vocalist Tristan Clemons, guitarist Zach St. Denis, drummer/keyboardist Alex Brezik, and bassist Callum Duncan, have crafted an eight-song record that's hard to ignore.
From start to finish, the album is an unexpected sonic journey that unfolds with each new track. It’s a bold, visceral record that showcases the relentless energy and fierce creativity the band has become known for. Early on, tracks like ‘Cerebellum’ immediately grab you with a mix of wind and radio static before erupting into a full-throttle rock anthem. Elsewhere, ‘In the Rain’ cuts you quickly, lashing out with the sound of a downpour before exploding into huge guitar riffs and Tristan’s gritty, impassioned vocals.
Speaking about the album, the band explained, “Endless ideas and energy went into this and everything we have been through these last few years really shows on this album.” True to form, there’s no scarcity of sharp choices and eclectic moments, charging through the record. Tracks like ‘Power to Surrender’ and ‘Bite The Earth’ offer seething rock anthemics and rising melodics, while ‘Yellow Mind’ leans on jagged guitar to make its mark. Even in the album’s final moments, World Engine find a way to elicit a response, carving out songs like ‘Step Away’, which shine through more sentimental sounds and reflective tones.
Through all the changes and textures through, it’s the powerful and intricate drumming of Alex Brezik that holds things together. His work on ‘Coded Names’ is far more than just rhythm; it's a dynamic force that drives each track, adding layers of complexity and emotional weight. Producers Justin Mantooth and Andy Oxman have done a brilliant job of capturing the band’s raw energy while giving the sound a polished, full-bodied feel.
The album’s success lies in its ability to be both cohesive and diverse, bridging a variety of genres to create something entirely unique. The band’s own words summarise their achievement best: “We attempted to make something for everyone and blended many genres to fit our own sound.” And they’ve absolutely succeeded.
You can stream the full album above on Spotify, and for more from the band, be sure to follow them on Instagram.
