Lineup:
Cory Grady- drums
David Lock- bass
John Kempainen- guitar
Trevor Strnad- vocals
Brian Eschbach- guitars
Background Info:
A very unique and inspiring record. Many bands have tried to accomplish this kind of sound and style but few have succeeded. Becoming an even bigger band by each tour they headline and co-headline, along with videos being played on MTV2, they are becoming a leader in the new movement for death metal in the mainstream.
This is a great album. At times it can be very heavy and dark, but other times the melodic riffs and solos shine through. In the end, everything pieces together so well. The production value is perfect. Every instrument can be heard (except for the bass, which fits best shadowed by the rhythm guitar, giving it a heavy low end). The double bass is insane on the drums along with relentless blast beats. The tone of the guitar is perfect, enough said. The transition from power chords to tremelo picking is neat. The vocals are well orchestrated alongside the music. There is only one vocalist but he switches between high pitched screaming to the standard death metal growling style of vocals. The lyrics on each song are different. Hard to explain what they mean exactly but once you read the lyrics you can get a feel for what they mean.
Some of the best songs of the album (in my opinion) are as follows:
Unhallowed/Funeral Thirst: While "Unhallowed" is the opening track/intro, it leads right into "Funeral Thirst". "Funeral Thirst" basically introduces you to every aspect the album offers you. Fast, Heavy, Unrelenting and catchy. In the middle of the song you get a nice, beautiful solo.
Elder Misanthropy: Personally, this is one of my favorite songs of this album, favorite song of TBDM and one of my favorite songs ever. It is just amazing. The riffs are brutal, the vocals are some of the best on the album and the drumming is destructive. The best part of the song is when it gets to the chorus (which is highly melodic). The followed by some breakdowns then ending by chorus and an outro. I love this song.
Contagion: The opening riff/main riff is unforgetable. You will not be disappointed in this song. It has everything. Thrash style riffs, Hardcore style riffs and amazing solo in the middle of the song.
Closed Casket Requiem: The song is a pretty good song. Listen to it, enjoy it.
Positives: This album is appealing to anyone who likes death metal, melodic death metal, hardcore or metalcore (as long as you have an open-minded listening experience). Alot of the album is catchy and unforgettable. Very brutal and fun.
Negatives: The really isn't any negatives. Only that "Elder Misanthropy" and "Contagion" should be longer songs. Other than that, it is a matter of personal decision.
The album is a perfect chance to listen to something new and different whether to trash your room with or relax with a six pack. I highly recommend buying it. Give it a listen first to see if it is in your taste of style of music. It isn't that expensive either. About $10-$12 anywhere you can pick it up. Definitely a worthwhile record.
Rating: 5/5
