Christian hardcore band For Today is releasing their fourth studio effort just in time for it to fuel their momentum as they head out on the intensely popular summer Warped Tour circuit. Immortal is a worthy addition to the band's heavy, intensely theological discography.

 

From the first crunchy barrage of the first full track "Fearless," the strength of this album lies in its unashamed, upfront statements--both in the music and the lyrics. Frontman Mattie Montgomery belts out statements about the character and kingdom of God framed with his rich, growled vocals. Ryan Leitru's guitar work is equally searing, providing a fitting backdrop for the rock solid lyrics. 

 

The chorus of the title track roots the album firmly in one of its primary themes: "Everyone dies, but not everyone truly lives." This track also brings one of For Today's primary musical devices to the front line, employing some spoken word vocals layered over the guitar foundation. Although most of the drumming and guitar tone stays true to basic hardcore conventions, there are some beautiful and perhaps more widely accessible guitar hooks on songs such as closing track "My Confession"--which is, like much of the album, a confession in the more traditional sense of a statement of belief.

 

Thematically, the lyrics throughout the album deal with themes of who God is and what it looks like to be a part of His kingdom. Songs like "Set Apart" and "Stand Defiant" emphasize the necessity for followers of Christ to stand strong and accept their identity from God, not from the world. "I was made for this battle. The only threat is my apathy," Montgomery declares in "Stand Defiant." 

 

These complementary themes are expressed beautifully in the two most unique musical moments on the album, "The Call" and "The King." Both tracks are beautifully crafted, the usual guitars and drums overlaid with haunting strings. The vocals are replaced with slightly distorted sound bites of a variety of voices. The sound clips in "The Call" focuses on our reactions to Christ and what it looks like to follow Him. Opening track "The King" leans more towards exploring who God is. These two brief interludes provide some of the most unique and beautiful musicianship on the album.

 

For Today is gaining more and more momentum in the hardcore world, and Immortal uses that platform beautifully to pummel the airwaves with truth delivered by hard edged guitar riffs and in-your-face vocals. This album encourages listeners to drink deep from the only source of hope while challenging them to move beyond apathy and embrace a deeper form of service. This is definitely an album that will serve to put For Today on the map of any hardcore fan, with a message that begs to be heard and the raw musical power to back it up.