Album Review: DEXCORE — WE WERE HERE (2025)

Verdict: ★★★★☆ (4/5)  •  Style: Metalcore / Deathcore + Visual Kei elements

DEXCORE’s 2nd full-length (2025)

Context & Release

WE WERE HERE is DEXCORE’s second full album, released 7 May 2025. It features 17 tracks including singles like “THE LIGHT,” “Savior,” “SKINDEEP,” and the new single “Trace,” whose PV dropped with the album. The album topped Japan’s metal charts and rock rankings shortly after release.

Sound & Highlights

DEXCORE lean hard into modern metalcore and deathcore tropes—heavy breakdowns, soaring choruses, atmospheric passages, and clean/unison vocals. There’s a theatrical flair baked in which nods to VK roots.

• “Trace” (single): standout song with emotional peaks; strong visual support in PV. :
• Genre fusion: The album mixes symphonic elements and aggressive heaviness.
• Track pacing: 17 tracks, some interludes—keeps you guessing what’s next.

Watch: “Trace” PV

A fan breakdown video of the album.

Reception & Fan Feedback

AlbumOfTheYear reviewer called it “jaw dropping” and a contender for AOTY. On JROCK ONE, some say its strength is consistency — others argue it leans too safe and lacks bold surprises.

Pros & Cons

• + Pros: dramatic production; strong singles; mixes heaviness + melody well.
• – Cons: some listeners feel it’s too safe or repetitive; not many real surprises.

Final Thoughts

WE WERE HERE is a confident step forward for DEXCORE. It won’t rock the VK world entirely fresh, but it solidifies their identity: theatrical heavycore with ambition and consistent craft. Worth a listen, especially if you like the heavier side of VK with modern polish.

Tags: Reviews, DEXCORE, WE WERE HERE, 2025 album