Review: With Resistance - Self-Titled

artist: with resistance album: self-titled label: immigrant sun records released: by: rob tatum Finally a melodic hardcore album that doesn’t have any strings attached. New Jersey’s With Resistance offers up their self-titled full length without any of the fancy packaging, without any of the acoustic songs, or techno whatever. For all the things that have put a blemish on the genre of melodic hardcore, this album is a shining star This album hits the listener with so much energy and melody that it’s nearly impossible to put into perspective. There are fast paced parts as well as breakdowns, but it flows so well, that you don’t really notice the deviations. It’s not the most complex album ever made, but everything is pieced together very well and it sounds really smooth. I know that you are probably saying to yourself, “A hardcore album that is smooth? Yeah, right.” My only response is to give this a listen. Lyrically, the album touches base on many general topics, not just sappy love songs, or angry anthems. Here’s a bit from the song “Character Flaw”, ‘You strut that pretty grin but I see that ugly heart. Fall to pieces. I’d love to put you in your place, but that’s not how I work. So I’ll just let you pass by.’ Musically, it isn’t just metal riffs over punk beats like the majority of the releases of late. The drumming during the breakdowns is quite good and the guitar work in general is excellent. The band has quite a bit of talent, and it is put to good use on this release. The vocals are probably most similar to early Poison the Well, but without the singing. This album isn’t anything extraordinary, but it is a glimpse of hope that maybe melodic hardcore won’t become watered down and boring. Anyone who is a fan of hardcore or thinks that maybe all the bands sound the same should give this a listen. It’s probably the best melodic hardcore release I have heard is a long time. favorite song: "nathan ate the last box of crayons" rating: 89%/100% listen to with resistance