Having seen Letter Kills open up a free show with The Used in Cincinnati a few years ago, I immediately knew that there was something different about this band. Their debut full length The Bridge proves to be an astounding representation of how to create a debut record, blending genres such as classic rock, metal and pop.
Having waited a while to hear some new music from Letter Kills, I had high expectations, and those expectations were definitely fulfilled. The Bridge opens up vigorously with its hard hitting 80's metal-like riffs and screaming vocals in "Lights Out". Track 2 is the record's first single "Don't Believe", which was also on the band's EP that they sold at shows and out of their trailer. "Don't Believe" proves to give a great overall feel in to the Letter Kills sound. "Time Marches On" marks the midpoint of the record, and reminds me of an 80's rock song in the fact that it includes background gang vocals, and a robust guitar solo near the end. "When You're Away" comes on Track 9 with soaring vocals, and is an overall well rounded song. "Radio Up" is the third and last song from the band's EP, and re-incorporates screaming into the mix of the band's rock influences. Track 11, "Shot To The Chest", reminds me of 80's Van Halen-like rock songs with its explosive guitars, vocals, and then adding some screaming at the end of the song.
The Bridge offers a few ballads that are a magnificent asset to the album. The song "Clock Is Down", which was also on the band's EP, is one of them. A melodic guitar opens it up, which then goes into a heartfelt song that is definitely one of the many high points, and a personal favorite, of the album. "Hold My Heart (Part 2)", comes on Track 8, and begins with a slow and dreamy guitar that goes into a true rock ballad that sounds like it came out of the early 90's. "Hold My Heart (Part 1)" shuts the door splendidly on the 12-track debut record from Letter Kills. It is an earnest song that combines emotional vocals with a sincere rock song, and is a real gem on the album.
Although some may see Letter Kills as just another band, I see them as an asset to the music scene with their boldness to try and bring back some of the older music influences that have been lost over so many years. Overall, The Bridge is a prime example in bringing back some classic rock and pop influences and blending them in with high energy screaming and modern influences.
3.5/4
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