CROSS CHECK SET THE MONTREAL METALCORE SCENE ABLAZE WITH “WILDFIRE”

Photo Credit: Jonatan Beauchamp

Montreal metalcore outfit Cross Check has been bringing the heat since forming in 2022, and their latest single, “Wildfire,” might be their most scorching release yet. Released August 18, the track comes loaded with crushing riffs, punishing breakdowns, and enough force to explain why the band has been tightening their grip on Montreal’s heavy music scene.

Released through independent label Static Era Records, “Wildfire” digs into climate grief and the anxiety surrounding our planet’s increasingly uncertain future. As environmental conditions continue to deteriorate, Cross Check channels frustration and fear directly into the music. The instrumentals feel appropriately massive, giving the subject matter some serious weight without losing the aggression you want from a metalcore track.

There are flashes of Boundaries in the track’s relentless heaviness, some of the brutality you’d expect from Suicide Silence, and an impressive vocal performance from frontwoman Hannah Castelli tying it all together. Her range gives “Wildfire” another dimension, moving through the track with enough ferocity to stand toe-to-toe with the riffs and breakdowns surrounding her.

And the timing couldn’t be much better. Cross Check is bringing “Wildfire” to Vans Warped Tour Montreal this weekend, where we have a feeling this thing is going to hit considerably harder with a pit opening up in front of them.

“Wildfire” is sure to be hotter than anything Smokey Bear has seen in a minute. So grab your sunscreen, lace up your moshing shoes, and remember: only you can prevent wildfires.

Upcoming Shows:

August 22nd - Montreal, QC - Vans Warped Tour at Parc Jean-Drapeau

September 7th - Quebec City - La Source de la Martinière with Freezerburn, Hostile Switch, Portraits of Anger and For One Hate