|
 
Fans of the hardcore scene may be familiar with emocore act Inked in Blood. They hail from Falling Up’s hometown of Portland, Oregon and have a sound that is a cross between Dead Poetic and No Innocent Victim. Their previous effort “Lay Waste the Prophets” scanned over 8,000 units, and they have been able to tour with bands such as: Becoming the Archetype, Scars of Tomorrow, and Drop Dead Gorgeous. For their sophomore album “Sometimes We Are Beautiful,” Inked in Blood hooked up with producer Troy Glessner, known for his work with Demon Hunter and Haste the Day. The result is IIB’s most melodic album to date, but is actually smoother and cleaner than their past work.
An easy favorite on “Sometimes…” is the melodic and rhythmic, “Altars.” The song is about one offering himself as a sacrifice to the Lord, uttering “Strong enough to sever bone-but much too weak to give this up/Strong enough to quench desire, strong enough to be an offering on an altar.” Some of the album’s edgier tunes like “Angel of Lost Hopes” and “Somewhere Familiar” prove that Inked in Blood have not lost their signature hardcore sound. However, Joey’s screams are less evident this time around as more vocal melodies are given extra exposure on tracks like “This Moment” and “Paradise Regained.” In many ways, Inked in Blood draws easy comparisons to Underoath and Means, but still still strive to distance themselves from their adversaries.
In regards to “Sometimes We Are Beautiful’s” lyrics, issues emphasized are the subjects of warfare, spiritual brokenness, and man’s struggle to regain fellowship with the Creator. The latter issue is touched upon with the album closer “Paradise Regained,” whereas the closing minutes of this 9-minute saga blends beautiful harmonious chords and soothing vocals proclaiming “We have the hope of all hopes” [the hope being God for those uncertain of its implication]. “Sometimes…” is unique at best and a step above Inked in Blood’s previous effort “Lay Waste the Prophets.” Inked in Blood is one band that is challenging to put into laymen’s terms because they’re a band that will become an instant favorite among a typical fan of hardcore from the get go, or may take time to grow on the listener through repeated listens. Either way, this band has crafted an honest effort that contains many radio friendly tunes with limitless boundaries. “Sometimes We Are Beautiful” should readily become more than a once-in-a-while listen to hard music enthusiasts.
| Production | 8 | | Lyrics | 7 | | Message | 8 | | Overall Quality
8 |
Release Date: October 2, 2007
Label: Facedown Records
Track Listing
1. Call to Arms
2. Angel of Lost Hopes
3. Alters
4. To Be Your One and Only
5. Instrumental
6. This Moment
7. Somewhere Familiar
8. With Devils
9. In the Wake of Loss
10. Paradise Regained
|
Subscribe to this comment's feed
