Since October
Posted July 19, 2010
By piano89,
Florida-based nu-metal act, Since October continues to bring aggressive vocals, honest lyrics, and rhythmic anthems on its sophomore release, Life, Scars, Apologies. Stylistically, it’s not much different from the band’s debut and avoids pushing any musical boundaries (the biggest chance taken is the use of a harmonica on the closing track).
The rhythm section is really the heart of the album, but many of Since October’s riffs and rhythmic elements seem to be drawn from the band’s industry peers, namely P.O.D., Disciple, and Thousand Foot Krutch. It shouldn’t be any band’s goal for its audience to think, “Hey, this sounds exactly like that Disciple song, (insert song name here).” With that being said, listeners may be willing to grant the band a pass on the similarities because of the band’s sheer passion and authentic lyrics.
“The Show” aptly demonstrates raw passion with Ben Graham spitting fighting words throughout the chorus- “Boom, boom, bang, don’t pull no punches/’Til the clock reach zero.” Gang vocals also add a nice touch on the verses. While the power ballads are over-produced and quite generic, Graham again injects life into these songs with vocal texture (i.e. trembling, straining) evoking vulnerability.
Heart-on-sleeve lyrics are also one of the better features of Since October, be it power ballads or rock anthems. “Life Of Mine” finds Graham desperately searching for something more than his current life. Groove-driven “Other Side Of Me” is similar in theme, regretting past mistakes and wanting change- “I’m so sick of my mistakes. Will I change?”
Since October has at least two things going for it, passion and authentic lyrics. And the latter is something that most bands struggle to produce. Unfortunately, these aspects are overshadowed by music that sounds all too familiar. View All Music And Book Reviews By piano89 | View piano89's Profile
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