The Pitch: North Carolina-based metallic/blackened hardcore band Violent Life Violent Death return with Come, Heavy Breath. "We really wanted to illustrate moments of fervor that draw a gasp, or, a heavy breath, as the title depicts. These are the moments of awe that we each experience in life, whether they be conjured through excitement, joy, sadness, loss, lust, love, wonder, etc.” FFO: Young And In The Way, Zao, Wolf King
What I Like: I really loved the "Every Time I Die meets Watain" approach that these guys brought to their debut EP, and all of those strengths have only matured on Come, Heavy Breath. The Southern rock influence on the raging guitars, grimly blackened vocals, and pounding drums are becoming a well-oiled machine sure to turn some heads. Furthermore, the band hasn't fallen victim to the "let's make a longer release this time just because" trap. Violent Life Violent Death understand that less is more when done right, keeping the runtime to a lean 23 minutes. The result is a highly focused hardcore outing that never falters for a second from its mission statement of primal destruction. The opening bass riff of the title track will rattle your frames off the walls, and they keep it at 11 until the final waining feedback of "Narcissist."
Critiques: I don't really have any personal criticisms, but I can already foresee some in the comments. Whenever I post modern blackened hardcore, I get BM purists scoffing and crying "poser trash"...and honestly pretty much the same from hardcore fans who don't like to muddy the waters either. To them I say, I can't think of anything more boring than always coloring within the lines or being unable to just have a good time.
The Verdict: If you're looking for a new band to take up the helm of groups like Young And In The Way without the controversy, Violent Life Violent Death are the band for you. This album is an iron clad 6 tracks of pure, anthemic rebellion. Don't miss out.
Flight's Fav's: Come, Heavy Breath, Backbiter, Mourn
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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