Before they were known as Self Defense Family, Kindlon & Co. were known as End Of A Year, and this, their first full-length record, showcases the raw beginnings of the band and their immense songwriting capabilities even then. It's take on post-hardcore and emo is sloppy despite being pretty intricately written, and manages to be engaging emotionally as well. The vocals are higher-pitched than later records, and aren't as gruff, sounding more pained and distressed than powerful. The lyrics are pretty great as well, with several very relatable and quotable lines popping up throughout the record. The production is pretty good as well, being raw, but not so much that it detracts from the listening. And, in twenty-five minutes, it allows plenty of room for re-listening, which definitely is a virtue considering just how full of nuances the record is. In all, the debut full-length from the family is quite great, and shows signs of the great things to come.
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