Cover of This Is A Standoff Be Delighted
TSTW

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For fans of melodic hardcore, followers of this is a standoff and belvedere, hardcore punk enthusiasts, music lovers seeking expert technique and strong vocals
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THE REVIEW

The Belvedere were already a great band. But their breakup was a good thing because if they hadn’t broken up, This Is A Standoff wouldn’t exist. Formed in 2007, they managed to rise to prominence on the Melodic Hardcore scene with just two albums and recently released this 5-song EP. No fear in listening to it, after "Be Excited" and the even better "Be Disappointed," disappointment was impossible, and this EP certainly won’t disappoint. By now, we know the band’s characteristics, excellent technique, rapid tempo changes that at times remind of Wilhelm Scream (and let's be honest, sometimes they underplay them), a particular emphasis on the singer’s splendid voice, which was underutilized in Belvedere (a pity) and almost no contamination from external genres. This is pure Melodic Hardcore.

It's impossible to identify a weak point on the record, a gem that stands out from the others. You'll be amazed from the start, saying "Oh, is the first track already the best?" only to take it back with the second track that matches it, and do it again with the third, fourth, and fifth. It's a pity it's just an EP.

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Summary by Bot

This Is A Standoff rose from the breakup of Belvedere to deliver a compelling melodic hardcore EP with 'Be Delighted.' The band shows excellent technique, rapid tempo changes, and strong vocals throughout all five tracks. The EP avoids weak points, maintaining consistent quality and leaving a strong impression despite its short length. Fans of the genre will find much to appreciate here.

Tracklist Videos

01   We're Really Doing It (03:33)

02   The Enlightened One (02:44)

03   Head in the Sand (02:34)

04   See You at the Bottom (03:08)

05   Vanadian (03:06)

This Is a Standoff

This Is a Standoff is a Canadian melodic hardcore band formed in 2007 by former Belvedere members, including singer-guitarist Steve Rawles and drummer Graham Churchill. Known for technical playing, rapid tempo shifts, and strong melodies, they released Be Excited (2007), Be Disappointed (2009), and the Be Delighted EP (2011).
03 Reviews

Other reviews

By Taurus

 "This brief EP 'Be Delighted,' released in September 2011, is an instant polaroid of the current health of the scene."

 "'Head in The Sand' [is] characterized by a delightful broken chorus."