The Pitch: Gilead Media delivers the debut album from post-hardcore supergroup, Less Art; the alliance of brothers Riley and Ed Breckenridge of Thrice, Ian Miller and Jon Howell of Kowloon Walled City, and Mike Minnick of Curl Up and Die. FFO: These Arms Are Snakes, mewithoutyou, The Drowned God, Fugazi
What I Like: This whole "post-hardcore classic" sound is being revived in a big way...or maybe it never really left. In any case, listening to Strangled Light is like hopping in a time machine set to the late 90's. This album was written in an alternate universe where The Argument didn't signal the end. Through hardcore-infused spoken word, dreary, moody guitarwork, and a little bit of groove; Less Art deliver passionate songs that show plenty of respect and love for the genre's forerunners. Whether slow and depressive or picking up the pace with some indie rock hooks, these guys know what they're doing.
Critiques: A few more faster tracks would have boded well in terms of dynamics and flow. I find myself getting a little bored and melancholy over the duration of the album. Then again, I know hardcore mewithoutyou fans who come listen to this stuff for that precise reason.
The Verdict: Not necessarily an album for thrilll-seekers, but definitely a rewarding one for the longtime post-hardcore fans out there. Strangled Light comes out this Friday.
Flight's Fav's: Diana the Huntress, Pessimism as Denial, Strangled Light
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to share it with others to help us grow. You can also like and follow us on the social media of your choice with Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and support us on Patreon.