Glasgow metal band Sixth Wonder have released their third single of the year, ‘Burnout’, continuing what has been a busy 2026 for the rising group.
Following the release of ‘Missile’ and ‘IS THAT WHAT YOU WANT FROM ME?’ earlier this year, the latest track sees the four-piece explore another direction in their evolving sound.
The song opens with a series of slowly building electronic tones, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere as Rebekah Kirk’s vocals gradually come in over the top.
A steady, almost dance-like drum beat is introduced before the track eventually bursts into life, with heavy guitar riffs and pounding drums bringing a more traditional metal sound.
Despite the heavier instrumentation, Kirk’s vocals remain remarkably calm and measured, providing an interesting contrast to the intensity of the music behind her.
The track then fades back into its earlier dreamy sound, this time accompanied by a catchy electronic beat, with the vocals remaining largely unchanged as the instrumentation gradually builds once again.
This time, rather than exploding straight into the heavier sections, the guitars slowly develop, echoing the vocal melodies before returning to the heavier sound heard earlier.
The vocals are definitely one of the track’s strongest elements, with Kirk maintaining a consistent style throughout much of the song. However, the closing section sees a shift towards a more conventional metal vocal style, with lower, distorted vocals accompanying the heavier instrumentation.
While this certainly brings an increase in intensity, I found it less effective than the contrast established throughout the rest of the track.
The single explores the pressures of pursuing a career doing something you love, focusing on the guilt and frustration that can come with feeling burnt out despite seemingly having everything to be grateful for.
Vocalist and songwriter Rebekah Kirk explained that the track was inspired by her own experiences, particularly the pressure to remain grateful for opportunities while struggling with the demands that come alongside them.
The accompanying music video, directed by band member Dylan McVey, further explores these themes.
Set against a seemingly idyllic outdoor landscape, the high-contrast visuals create an unsettling atmosphere, reflecting the feeling of putting on a happy face while struggling internally.
Kirk described the video’s setting and unusual makeup as an attempt to capture the feeling of not recognising yourself and putting on an act of normality when things are falling apart.
Away from the studio, the Glasgow four-piece have performed alongside The Hara and Mallavora on tour, as well as appearing at RADAR and The Sanctum Festival.
The band have also continued to establish themselves within the Scottish alternative scene, having been crowned Best Metal at the Scottish Alternative Music Awards for a second time in 2025.
Their upcoming schedule includes a support slot alongside metal veterans Skindred at Glasgow’s Barrowland Ballroom, as well as their first festival headline appearance at Alt Fest in Cardiff on the 27 November.
Check out ‘Burnout’ on Spotify here.