Awaiting Abigail’s single Falling Under from their debut EP Bad Mind introduces the Dallas-based sextet as a band to watch in the hard rock and metal scene. Combining post-grunge textures with modern metal energy, the track is an emotional gut punch—a haunting exploration of a manipulative relationship, wrapped in a captivating sonic package.
From the ethereal opening notes, Abigail Hill’s angelic voice draws you into the story of Falling Under. This delicate introduction is deceptive, soon giving way to dark, powerful riffs and a pounding rhythm section. The contrast is striking—Hill’s melodic verses are laced with emotional vulnerability, while the chorus explodes with raw power, painting a visceral picture of the turmoil within a dysfunctional relationship.
Critics like Stan Kelly from The Accidental Music Reviewer UK have praised Abigail’s voice as “the quintessential soulful yet penetrating rock vocal,” and her performance here more than lives up to that description. Her ability to shift seamlessly between fragility and ferocity showcases not only her vocal talent but also her skill as a storyteller. She brings an authenticity that resonates deeply, giving the song a universal quality while still feeling intensely personal.
The instrumentation on Falling Under is nothing short of masterful. Awaiting Abigail’s signature “two-guitar attack,” led by James Smith and Mike Tolfa, creates a thick wall of sound that perfectly complements Hill’s soaring melodies. The riffs are tight and punchy, with a dark edge that recalls influences like Halestorm and The Pretty Reckless. Laurie Barnett’s basslines anchor the track with a steady groove, while Heather Hammonds’ drumming adds both power and precision, propelling the song’s momentum forward.
What sets the track apart is the band’s use of dynamic contrasts. Kori Tolfa’s synth textures add an atmospheric quality, creating moments of tension and release that elevate the song’s emotional weight. These layers ensure that the track remains engaging from start to finish, with enough depth to reward repeat listens.
At its core, Falling Under is a lyrical exploration of the push-and-pull dynamics of a toxic relationship. Abigail Hill’s delivery brings a raw sincerity to lines that evoke pain, confusion, and a desperate longing for escape. The chorus, in particular, is a cathartic release, capturing the moment when emotions boil over into a powerful declaration of self-awareness.
This emotional depth is a hallmark of the Bad Mind EP, which features other tracks like the self-reflective People Pleaserand the mental health anthem Bad Mind. Awaiting Abigail’s ability to tackle complex, deeply personal themes with such emotional clarity sets them apart from their peers in the hard rock and metal space.
For a band that only formed in 2024, Awaiting Abigail delivers a remarkably polished sound. Their debut performance at the UnSilent Night: Women in Metal Showcase in December 2024 proved that they’re not just a studio band—they have the live energy to match their recorded intensity.
Falling Under is an impressive introduction to what this band can do. It’s heavy, melodic, and emotionally charged, striking the perfect balance between grit and grace. As Stephen M. Walters from JUGGERNAUT Promotions aptly noted, “Abigail has a great sounding voice making them a dynamite-packaged band.”
Awaiting Abigail’s Falling Under is a striking debut single that showcases the band’s immense potential. From Abigail Hill’s standout vocals to the tight musicianship of the entire band, this track sets a high bar for what’s to come. It’s rare to find a band that combines technical skill, emotional depth, and sheer intensity so seamlessly, but Awaiting Abigail does just that.
If Falling Under is any indication, Awaiting Abigail is on the cusp of something special. Fans of Halestorm, The Pretty Reckless, and In This Moment will find plenty to love here, but the band’s unique sound ensures that they’ll carve out a space of their own in the hard rock and metal landscape. This is a track—and a band—that demands your attention.
Connect with AWAITING ABIGAIL on
English