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After "Shadows Are Security," which brought them much satisfaction, the four from San Diego return with "An Ocean Between Us" an album bringing a breeze of change within their discography.
It can be said that the heaviness and monolithic nature that characterized the previous chapter are partly set aside here in favor of the more continuous use of melodic lines, criticized by some, from the new bassist Josh Gilbert, which steers the band onto the main track of classic metalcore bands such as Killswitch Engage, although Tim Lambesis' screaming/growls remain as biting as ever.
But let's be clear, the work goes straight to the point, the melodic lines are in their place, and despite the extreme metal influences being partly set aside, the final result is more than good. Better than Bullet For My Valentine!
Of note is the excellent title track "An Ocean Between Us" with the heavily triggered drums of Jordan Mancino, "Forsaken" and "The Sound Of The Truth" (both equipped with killer choruses) which pair with other episodes that now show thrash influences ("Bury Us All", "Within Destruction" and "Comfort Betrays) now more melodic and expansive ("I Never Wanted," a stand-alone chapter).
The third track "Nothing Left" is distinguished by the stuttering rhythm of the guitars.
If this is your favorite genre, you will certainly appreciate this album that will make you rejoice.
But don't come to ask me who wins in an arm-wrestling match between this and Shadows Are Security, because I still have to figure it out...
Tracklist Lyrics and Videos
08 Bury Us All (02:23)
I see them coming
With shrouds to bury us all
Before we were born they shaped our lives
Leading us into an unmarked grave
In moments life could end
So I will speak while I can
This is my chance
My time to stand
We may fail alone but that is better
Than dying with them only to be forgotten
I for one would rather suffer now
Than leave this life without passion
This is our chance
Our time to stand
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By Jester
As I Lay Dying finally reach their artistic maturity, delivering an album that will delight all metalcore and N.W.O.A.H.M. enthusiasts.
The compositional formula adopted is not the most original, but it intelligently balances heaviness and melody without slipping into extremes.
