Album: The Downfall
Label: Media Skare
Released: 10/2/2007
BSTscore: 74
I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised with this album. I had not previously heard of Belay My Last and I was ready to dismiss this as “just another band playing death metal” when I first put it in my CD player. I’m glad I made it past my first impression and gave The Downfall a few more listens.
This won’t be the first or last time I express my distaste for guttural, death metal vocals. With that said, I actually don’t mind the deep bellows from vocalist Jason Denney. His mix of raspy screams and clear growls is comprehendible and fits the music perfectly. For once, I don’t think the band would be better without the guttural vocals. The best comparison I have is The Acacia Strain. Another positive is that the band’s lyrics are passionate and angry. I like the fact that they are personal and I know that listeners can relate to them.
As for the music, it’s fast, heavy, and solid from start to finish. What I really like about The Downfall is that the songs flow really well. The trendy thing to do of late in this genre is to write a blast beat filled part, stop completely, play some technical riff, and growl away. Belay My Last stays away from this trap and I thank them for it. At times, the album is more metalcore than death metal, which is okay with me. Their sound may not be unique, but it is still a good listen.
Standout tracks for me include “Miss
Musicianship: 80
Vocals: 75
Creativity: 70
Impact: 70
Favorite Song:
Listen to Belay My Last
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