Review of Upcoming EP: Coldrain - Optimize
Words by BeckyKat Kaptures
Photo Credit - Jesse Kojima
Alter-nation has been given the opportunity to have a first listen to the fantastic new EP by Coldrain, a rock band hailing from Japan. Released 24th October 2025.
Formed in 2007 their beginnings were more focused in metalcore with their first album, Final Destination in 2009. By their next album in 2011, The Enemy Inside, they had really started to refine their sound. 2013 saw their first international release with The Revelation, showcasing their range of sound.
With the next progressive albums from Vena to Fateless to The Side Effects and then NonNegative in 2022, there is a beautiful progression in musical style to the alternative/post-hardcore rock band Coldrain are today, with both screaming and clean vocals and wonderful melodies.
The new EP has a strong start with title track Optimize, heavy riffs and strong vocals from Masato into great melodies. Strong emotive start.
Chasing Shadows is the perfect chaser, beautiful vocals, a catchy pop/rock number you could easily sing a long to. Katsuma on drums really giving it his all on this track, giving you hope in this dark world - 'their hollow and cruel minds may bring the rain but they’ll never steal our flames'. Beautifully shoot video for this track which really adds to the atmosphere of this song.
Getting groovier on Digitoll, with lyrics of "Nothing is original, no-one is original", it's an informative take on everyday life, with riffs and vocals you can really get your teeth into.
Get your head banging for the next track 'Incomplete', heavy guitar and bass from Y.K.C and Sugi, and RxYxO. The song delves into the heavy parts of Coldrain's repertoire demonstrating the huge range of Masato's vocals. The video and lyrics really delve into how care for ourselves is lost and the search for meaning in the world.
Ending the EP strong with Free Fall, strong vocals, riffs and drums have you wanting it not to end with a empowering sense of connection. The strength of the band musically together really shines through.
Overall this EP is a wonderful credit to Coldrain and their ongoing musical evolution, they do not forget their roots but keep adding to strength of their unique style.
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