The Pitch: Indianapolis hardcore/mathcore trio OLAM (short for Of Lions And Men) tear it up on assuredly one of 2019's best albums in the genre. FFO: Converge, Botch, Baptists
What I Like: Another incredible record that reminds me of why I started this site in the first place. I probably wouldn't even know about OLAM were it not for my platform, but thanks to the band reaching out I have the pleasure of sharing with you what is sure to be one of the best hardcore/mathcore albums of the year. Heavily influenced by the works of Converge and representing "a lyrical and musical journey through a traumatic experience," I Will Guide Your Hand is this counselor/metalhead's wet dream. No hyperbole, this album gives me the same thrills as my first listens of Jane Doe and You Fail Me. Similar to those albums, this one is as melodic and thoughtful as it is sharp and abrasive. The faster bits drag you over the broken glass of jagged, angular guitar riffs before dipping into the even more piercing sorrow of tracks like "Under My Breath" and "Razorblades As Neckties." As someone who has worked professionally with trauma for the better part of a decade, I feel that OLAM have put to music a feeling of anxiety, doubt, confusion, and loss of control that is often failed by words alone.
Critiques: Aside from being pretty stylistically familiar, my biggest complaint would be not enough people hearing this album. While I understand how business and listener preference work, it's still a travesty that the latest recycled, processed trash will sell more copies than this ever will.
The Verdict: Another must-listen album that sorely needs your help as the reader to get it the attention it deserves. OLAM, with the help of Paul Hundeby (Philia Audio) and Alan Douches (West West Side Music), have crafted a masterpiece from the impassioned, technical performances to the gripping emotional aesthetic. Please share this album and/or review with everyone you know. Don't let great music dwindle in obscurity.
Flight's Fav's: Beth, The Birds, The Grip, Ventriloquism, I Will Guide Thy Hand
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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