VCTMS; hellbent on groovy, chaotic, blistering and depressive noise – carry the banner of Illinois’ noisy, frenzied and manic take on alternative metal solely on their capable shoulders, coupled with an unshakable work ethic and unwavering dedication to their sprawling fanbase.
From their first release, through cross-country tours and leviathan collaborations with the likes of Spite’s Darius Tehrani, Emmure’s Frankie Palmeri, and Paleface Swiss’ Marc Zelli, VCTMS have an immense discography consisting of five full length records: Sickness Vol. 1 through their most recent LP, Vol. V: The Hurt Collection and two EPs—the most recent of which is their latest studio release, Pain Processing. With each release, VCTMS sound becomes more and more refined, but also more whimsical and effervescent, incorporating splashes of hip-hop, darkwave, industrial, post-hardcore and more to create something that defies simple genre classification—but remains, at its core, the same rapidly-cycling, depressive and devastating brand of metalcore that screams Chicago with a raw throat and swollen lungs. With lyrical content that oscillates from harshly introspective to immolating and homicidal, the band is as relatable as they come—which lends considerably to their overwhelming popularity on the road, touring alongside acts like Crystal Lake, Paleface Swiss, 156/Silence, Veil Of Maya, Cane Hill and more—just within the last few years. The band only continues to grow with each release.
VCTMS are experienced, crushingly heavy, startlingly innovative and, above all else, work in a way many of their peers can hardly fathom, making them a stand-out band where not just metalcore—but rather all of heavy music—is concerned. Welcome to the bad luck crew. It’s bad luck season.