August Burns Red- Messengers

August Burns Red releases their sophomore effort on SolidState records called Messengers. When hearing their previous release Thrill Seeker it basically is deemed up lifting. Never have I heard such an onsluaght of brutal technical metalcore, from such a you group of kids. Who would have known that ABR would have saved us?
In their latest release, they do nothing short of reassuring the latter. Messengers is chock full of more technicality then Apple Computers, and as brutal as a WWE pay per view.
The song is unveiled as quite the progression, as the songs still stay true to their brutal song writing, but seem to let songs speak for themselves, as opposed to having certain songs revolve soley on the breakdowns.
Vocally, this record is phenomenal, ABR's new vocalist Jake Luhrs shows one of the best, most tasteful screaming ranges in metal. It's truly beautiful.
Production wise, the record is on point. And despite the fact that the drum tones do sound a little too digital, ABR lacks no talent int he drumming department. In fact, one could say that these drum parts are almost thought provoking, and ground breaking.
The last problem with the record, the only issue that really holds the record back from perfection, is the fact that songs do tend to run together. I think this is because each breakdown is lead with the China Cymbal.
Bottom line, is that this is the heaviest, and probably best metalcore record this year.
And that is a HUGE statement considering As I Lay Dying, and Still Remains have yet to rear their heads on the market.
It's safe to say the ABR is a huge leap for metalcore.

FINAL GRADE: A-

Architects- Ruin

I came across Architects simply by one of those days where people are just looking for new bands on MySpace. From band to band I searched and came across this British tech-metal powerhouse. Ultimatly I realized first that the UK has some incredible up and coming metal bands, and could be at the forefront of the modern metal movement that pushes us out of such a typical carbon copied rut, and into a new tomorrow.
Architect's previous record Nightmares was a combination of technicality, noise, and brutality. On their latest release they bring the same flavor, but with a more mature twist.
Songs on Ruin come across as more direct, and more thoughtful as opposed to a handful of really great parts. The musicianship on this record is all things tasteful. Im sure the band could flood us with tons of great guitar work, fast playing etc, however, the band does what's best for the song, as opposed to just showing off their talents.
Songs flow decently from track to track, combining heavy, fast, and even some great ambience. Though songs from timed to time tend to sort of run together, the record is a great listen, and though it's nothig special, simply due to the fact that there just isn't a whole lot of push from this band, the presence is there, and I think the band will progress and bloom into something great, considering that they get proper exposure and support from their labels.
Look out for this band, pick up this record, give them the support the deserve.

FINAL GRADE: B+