WALLS OF JERICHO
"The American Dream"
(Trustkill; 2008)
Reviewed by Metal Mark
In recent years, bands flying under or being stamped with the metalcore label seem to have been popping up like dandelions in my yard during the spring. Some are about as likable as well, yet other acts manage to bring the best of metal and hardcore and rise to the surface.
Now "The American Dream" comes on the heels of the band’s “Redemption” EP which wasn’t completely met with open arms by many fans due to the change in direction. Apparently, they are back on track now -- or the EP was just something they wanted to get out of their system.
Walls of Jericho rip into this one like they have something to prove and maybe they felt that way after some of the responses to “Redemption.” No matter the motivation, they bring out a heavy surge of sounds with plenty of control and enough twists and turns musically to catch my attention.
On the other hand, the vocals are unfortunately a bit more pedestrian -- not bad, yet not all that thrilling either. I guess they are in tune with the pace of the music and there is an aggressive attitude, but they are a little muddy and don’t quite rise to the level of the music.
I do, however, have to give credit to the stellar production on this album and the attention to detail. It’s not only vibrant and clear, but has exactly the amount of echo on certain parts to really give it the depth it needed and deserved.
"The American Dream" is certainly an album that proves that metalcore hasn't run its course yet.
For more information, check out http://www.wallsofjericho.tv.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2008 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 04 Dec 2023 22:19:33 -0500.
