Review: Across Five Aprils - Collapse

artist: across five aprils album: collapse label: indianola records released: 7/2006 by: rob tatum It’s amazing what a few years can do for some bands. Across Five Aprils’ first full length, A Tragedy in Progress, was a very solid debut but it showcased the band’s youth and lack of cohesive song structures. That cannot be said about the band’s latest release, Collapse. This album clearly shows maturity and more dedication to the song writing process. The first thing I noticed about this album is that the clean singing, which was both awkward and out of place on their first album and even a bit on their latest EP, was much more fluid on this record. Although it is still a little off key, the clean singing really accents the screams of vocalist Brandon Mullins. I think that it is becoming harder and harder for bands to effectively mesh emotional lyrics and hardcore without being chastised for selling out or whatever, and although this album could fit that bill, I really feel that there is something behind this release. Musically, I can’t really say that the band has grown dramatically, but since the songs are so much more complete than their previous releases, it’s hard to criticize the musicianship. The songs are much more consistent in melody and no longer contain those random breakdowns that would throw off the song. I’m glad that they got over the whole “this song has to have a breakdown” attitude that seemed to handicap them in the past. I don’t think this is groundbreaking. I don’t even think it’s a must have unless you enjoy this genre or band, but even so, this is a very good album. It flows so well and no matter how many times you listen to it, it doesn’t get old. I’m impressed by the steps this band has taken in just a couple of releases and I know the future is bright for this band. favorite song: "i will stop the rain" rating: 86%/100% listen to across five aprils

Spotlight: Protest the Hero

bst spotlight band. Need something refreshing? How about something from Canada? How about both? Try Ontario's Protest the Hero. The band is powerful and melodic. Their music is strong and meaningful. Check them out on this year's Warped Tour. For more info about the band, follow the links below. protest the hero official website listen to protest the hero vagrant records