Melodic hardcore as this proclaims to be is a contradiction in terms, as hardcore by definition should be a feral violent beast but this album barely creates a roar preferring to purr gently in the corner. The short sharp song lengths do add a sense of urgency to the album making it more enjoyable but calling it hardcore is insulting really, even if you temper it by labelling it melodic hardcore. Be that as it may, album opener “The Permission” kicks hard vocally as the singing reminds of Lou Koller (Sick Of It All) before his bollocks dropped. Screamed gang chants permeate most tracks and are laced with clean vocalising akin to bands like Silverstein or Protest The Hero. An upbeat approach dominates the whole album as “Pinpoint The Shift” is glossed by some metal touches and a metalcore sense of commerciality, as demonstrated on the promo video the disc also contains. At times the overly poppish nature of the song had me writing High School Musicalcore which may seem ridiculous but the clean sounding songs are balanced by highly accessible choruses which appeals to young metal dudes these days.
“Cellphone Slaves” is slightly heavier with the addition of double kick drums and a hefty breakdown, indeed it is the breakdowns and the screamed macho vocals that make this in anyway extreme as metal it is not by any stretch of the imagination. “On A Trip” has a catchy cheerful beat whereas “Need For A Romeo” has some sickly clean vocals as the bands melodicore badge is displayed in full force. The short-lived instrumental “Raya” is pleasant enough before “Red Love” returns to familiar territory. The CD seemingly boasts guest vocal appearances which does nothing for me but is sure to assist in shifting a few units for the band. “Down On Me” is the nearest to true hardcore the band comes to as the song is far more aggressive whereas “Directions” shows a slight rock based orientation just for added variety.
Whilst this is not my usual style of music and its inclusion for the site maybe questionable, there is no denying the playing or the bands ability to pen catchy tunes for today’s youth. Though don’t be caught out by the bands promo blurb as it is a touch misleading. Anyone with a penchant for Protest The Hero or Silverstein as mentioned will definitely enjoy this immensely.
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