Since my last review was of an amazing tech/hardcore album from 1999, why not do another? Here we have Botch, contemporaries to The Dillinger Escape Plan who are unfortunately not nearly as well known. While TDEP has moved on to become one of the front runners of America's new wave of metal/hardcore, Botch has stayed mostly out of the spotlight in comparison. Botch however has probably had just as big if not more of an influence as TDEP though when it comes to hardcore bands who aren't afraid to go a little bit technical. Unfortunately, they have been disbanded since 2002 and have no plans of returning to the scene. But anyway, without further ado, here is my review of "We Are The Romans".
"We are The Romans" is nothing like your typical hardcore album. There are no toughguy antics, no faux-motivational lyrics about perseverance and staying true to the scene. The songs are not cookie cutter "insert breakdown A behind two step B " outings. Rather, each Botch song is like a strange journey into an alternative version of the planet earth where free-form jazz, metal riffs and hardcore punk all share the same space in some musical commune from hell. The only real drawbacks to this album are the vocals, which are pretty standard and the overall pace. The only song that ever feels like it really picks up is the driving "St. Matthew Returns To The Womb". That being said, this is still one hell of and album. I personally find it a very enjoyable listen. Pick this one up if you are a fan of The Dillinger Escape Plan, Converge or Coalesce.
Overall-4/5
No comments:
Post a Comment