Cataract

Switzerland's Cataract originated with a hardcore orientation yet pivoted in 1998 toward a heavier metallic approach in their compositions, settling into metalcore territory reminiscent of Hatebreed or Heaven Shall Burn. Following several demos and compilation spots, the five members—vocalist Mosh, guitarists Greg and Simon Fuellemann, bassist Michi, and drummer Ricky—delivered their first album, Golem, on Ferret Records in 2000. Fresh vocalist Fedi, aka Federico Carminitana, joined for the subsequent Martyr's Melodies EP in 2001 along with the band's debut U.S. tour supporting Poison the Well, Nora, and others; afterward the group headed back to Switzerland to track their next full-length, The Great Days of Vengeance, which surfaced in 2003 via Germany's LifeForce Recordings. One more imprint change followed, resulting in the 2004 release of their third album, With Triumph Comes Loss, on American metal stalwart Metal Blade.