Review: All That Remains - The Fall of Ideals

artist: all that remains album: the fall of ideals label: prosthetic records released: 7/06 by: rob tatum All That Remains had every opportunity to “sell out” and tone down this record. They were getting recognition on MTV and received great reviews from their performances on last year’s Sound of the Underground. As a fan of the band, I’m glad to say that The Fall of Ideals picks up where their previous release, This Darkened Heart, leaves off and carries the band forward. Musically, the band did not reinvent the wheel for this album, but there is not repetition in their songs or structures. The guitar work and drumming are very strong and make each song just as powerful as the next. I especially like the fact that the 80’s metal riffs are not overdone and are a tasteful addition to the breakdowns and speed metal riffs. The band’s ability to write melody into such heavy music certainly has propelled them to the top of this genre. Anyone who listens to All That Remains has to notice the driving force behind the band. Vocalist Phil Labonte has one of the most diverse and talented voices in heavy music today. His ability to change from guttural death metal vocals to powerful screams to melodic harmonies is unmatched. The pure strength in his voice carries this band. The only complaint I have is that his lyrical style still needs some refining. This album does a better job of incorporating more specific lyrics, but largely, the songs are generic. Nitpicking aside, this is a great album. It won’t redefine any genres or get a Grammy nod, but this is what metal and metalcore should be. Heavy, energetic, and powerful. The Fall of Ideals is a good listen no matter what your mood may be. I love when good bands actually meet your expectations with a record. This definitely met mine… and then some. favorite song: "become the catalyst" rating: 92%/100% listen to all that remains