Stretch Arm Strong
Rituals of Life
Reviewed by Ben Mengden
Instant win. This album is an easy punk/hardcore success. Leaning more towards the hardcore side, each song is powerful; a well done ensemble. A hail to the reasons we love hardcore: positive, motivational lyrics, energy, musical strength. Reminiscent of H2O, they have enough punk in them to do this wonderful chorus singing, while the lead vocals are more full-out screams. Both types of vocals are woven into a very melodic, strong punk sound. Track 3 has some very Solomon type vocals, but the comparison is strongest there, and not even close to sounding too much like Stavesacre or Outer Circle. The lead vocals are easy to listen to and very well done, and paired with the other vocals are pretty much another instrument. There is some beautiful guitar work throughout. Great tones. Track one starts off with this Bon Jovi sounding intro, almost like a joke, and then gives the listener its real sound. Lots of fast guitar work but not metal. Lots of power chords but still getting chuggy like some metal. Consistent work throughout that retains a sound, but there is enough variety in each song to keep things original and captivating. Vocal style and guitar work match very well and seem to feed each other more than some bands. This isn't totally original stuff but it's totally one of my new favorite albums of the year. Just when I had almost convinced myself that Emo was all there is, I hear incredible music like this and am reminded of whence I came.