In Those Days & Also After: A Beautiful, Complex Hardcore Album Posted September 04, 2021 By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know
Meadows is a five-piece melodic hardcore band from Alabama. They signed to Facedown Records in 2021; this is their debut with the label. They previously released two EPs out of a three-part series - In Those Days & Also After Pt.1 and Pt.2 with Pt.3 being released both inside this full album and seperate. In Those Days & Also After includes both of those and the new, third EP compiled together.
What It Sounds Like
Meadows brings a fresh blend of classic hardcore with melodic rock to create a nostalgic, immersive sound. Their style of hardcore reminds me of earlier bands signed to hard rock labels Facedown Records or Tooth and Nail Records. The vigorous music matches the cutting words of each song well. There are atmospheric and melodic elements throughout, giving it a difference from traditional hardcore.
Spiritual Highlights
Meadows tells an intricate story full of emotion, relatability, and ultimately, hope. Some songs are more directed to God, personally and lyrically, while others are more focused on others or self struggles. Ultimately, the songwriting is superb and must be heard in its entirety for the big picture.
Best Song
Meadows ends their conceptual album with an emotive finale (two songs, actually). "The Answer" and "The Beginning, The End" combine into a fitting ending to the record--full of closure and passion. The latter features vocalist Kevin Klein from the rock band Valleyheart. Both songs are also great examples of the types of sounds and music that can be heard throughout the record.
If hardcore music is not usually your favorite, I encourage you to check out Meadows anyway. There are different elements woven throughout this release; you're likely to find something meaningful and enjoyable. The three EPs (Pt.1, Pt.2, and Pt.3) have a different atmosphere to them; to some, the music would be better listened to in three parts. Overall, Meadows writes dramatic, narrative songs set to diverse, heavy music to send songs of life to us.
