Album Review: Conclusions By Altars, 1st Full-Length Album On Facedown Records

The cover artwork for the album “Conclusions” by the Facedown Records band “Altars”.

Conclusions by Facedown Records band “Altars” will appeal to those who like hardcore music and extremely heavy breakdown music, with vocals that are more yelled than screamed. You won’t get any deep growls here!

The band also tries their hand at more melodic pieces, and has some pretty good lyrical and thematic content from what I can gather. I had to listen to the album without the luxury of having lyrics available; something I typically REFUSE to do with metal albums. But even so I was able to enjoy the album pretty well. I know I’ll enjoy it even more once I get the lyrics for my review copy of the album from Facedown Records.

I enjoyed this record, even though the songs are not entirely distinctive from each other in my humble opinion, and the album really blends into itself; making it hard for me to remember any standout tracks. There are also several instrumental filler tracks that transition into the songs, although they are slower and thus are a welcome addition, but it lowers the full amount of real songs included on the album. Despite the forgettable nature of the album, I still had a good time listening to Altars, and this is band I’ll definitely continue to follow in the future. Give it a shot.

Song #1. Red Brick Army
This first track is a very heavy, mostly instrumental piece that sets the tone for the album extremely well. “We are the Red Brick Army, and we are hear to take a stand!” This is a fine little intro, although its nothing impressive.

Song #2. Scum
This is an awesome song and I really enjoyed it. It’s extremely heavy, and the anthem of “I am the scum of the earth! I deserve nothing” is done well and singable.

Here is the Scum lyrics video.

Song #3. The Coward
This song features a really cool portion at the bridge of the song where the band starts talking, with great lyrics about how God is reality and he believes. After that part the osong picks up again with the quick pace. Of which I’m less a fan of, but this is good song regardless.

Song #4. Portlen
This song starts out with a really slow, emotional sounding instrumental. Leading into the next track.

Song #5. Lower
The quick screams and yelling start off right off-the-bat in this next track. This song gets a lot better at about 1:30, which is the pace that I prefer from this band. I’m not a fan of the quick-screamed lyrics. Didn’t care too much for this song, although the themes are good. And the track ends on a high note.

Song #6. Unknowning
Now this is more like it! This track brings the heavy right from the gate just like we like it. The beginning of this track is when this band is at their back IMHO. However it then transitions into a more sing-y vocal style that I don’t care for. Before heading back to heavy and alternating the two. “This is my turning point”. Cool line, and directly after the two screams of that line, the song gets AWESOME. Overall I enjoyed this track.

Song #7. Ryland
This is another slow and quite beautiful little instrumental track.With a sad feel to it.

8. Montreal
EXTREMELY HEAVY intro. This is when this band is at their best and the intro here really impresses. “Look at me, I cannot seem, to hold my own.” At 1:10 this song gets totally insanely awesome. However its not carried throughout. Even so this song is one of the coolest on the album IMHO.

9. Shephards
A more emotional song with yelled lyrics from the start. This song goes in a bit of a different direction, with some really odd noises mixed in. Thematically I really like the lyrics I can understand from this song. At around 2:00 this song has a really awesome moment. Overall this song tries to take a somewhat more slower approach without totally slowing things down, which is interesting. Not a bad track.

10. Revelation
This song has a really quick pace, but with yelled lyrics that are spoken very deliberately. This is a really cool style. After the quick spoken first half, an awesome worship chorus kicks in with the band singing and speaking the name of Jesus. The whole worship vibe is AWESOME and I absolutely adore this track because of it. This is definitely THE standout. And the chorus is fantastic and singable. “Jesus, reveal your presense to me!”

11. Realization
This is another instrumental track leading into the next one… it’s a quick one.

12. Conclusions
I’m loving the intro of this track and the way it is done. Once again it goes into the quickly spoken vocals, which I’m less a fan of. But the vibe of this song is strong and I’m a fan of it. At around 1:12 we get some really cool music. It’s heavy without taking away from the melodic nature of the song. This song has an end-of-album emotional vibe to it that elevates it above a lot of the tracks on the album. Especially given the lyrics, which talk about how God is the answer to everything. A definite HIGHLIGHT.

Here’s a Conclusions album preview lyrics video from Altars!

 

Album Review: To Speak of Wolves Find Your Worth Come Home, 2nd Full Length

“Find Your Worth, Come Home” is the all-new Sophomore album from “To Speak of Wolves”, following their debut Solid State Records album called “Myself Is Less Than Letting Go” from 2010. Be sure to buy To Speak of Wolves Find Your Worth Come Home On Amazon.

Find Your Worth, Come Home was released on May 22, 2012, and will appeal to fans of metal music in the vein of UnderOath or Norma Jean. The music is extremely busy, and the first couple of songs blew by me and made me grit my teeth to the point where I was dreading having to take a full 11 tracks of this noise…

Making matters worse, I had the official lyrics in my hands (along with my review copy of the album provided by Solid State Records) and had extreme difficulty following them due to the vocal style of the band. Which reminds me of Oh, Sleeper, UnderOath or Norma Jean. Thankfully, however, the album begins to redeem itself once you hit the 4th song… all the way up until the finale, which is a song so powerful that it moved me to tears… and from a thumbs down to a thumbs up position. I recommend everyone go out and pick this album up. Even if it is NOT your cup of tea, give it a real shot. Listen to the songs below that say “HIGHLIGHT” and go through each one until you reach the final song. I can virtually guarantee you that, at that point, you will NOT be disappointed. While the music, the vocals and the themes of the album grow tired and do not manage to stand out from the crowd, the songwriting is spoken with passion… passion and conviction that boils over once you reach the end and will leave a HUGE impression on you afterward.

Any album that can move you to tears gets an immediate recommendation from me. As that is a feat rarely accomplished. Give this album a shot!

* Click on a songname to purchase that song digitally on Amazon.
— Now let’s go through “Find Your Worth Come Home” track-by-track, these opinions mark my INITIAL LISTEN, as I wrote this review as I listened to the album for the first time. —

1. Hive Mind
A blur… I don’t even have anything to say. Except that I don’t want to relive what just happened.

2. Stand Alone Complex (feat. Micah Kinard)
This song goes in some interesting places thematically. Especially towards the end, the song makes it blatant that this is talking about the hurt of a broken family. With lines like, “i swear dad has changed/he’s still a good man/ if i’m wrong i’ll hold my head high/ i’ll let God / spit in my face”. This song also has some interesting words about God, such as this line: “you cast your fault/project your loss/but reflections must mirror the victor/ your heart longs to honor/the fact remains/that His flawlessness waits/to accept only/utter surrender / and he’s extending his arms”. However even with lyrics in hand, I had a very hard time following what was being said… it all blurs into each other, and there were a few annoying parts in this song, with voices speaking over each other and such. Which always bugs me.

3. Vertigo
This is the first song that really stands out from this album, which will catch your attention immediately with the really cool sounding intro. The track is much better than the previous two, with interesting lyrics that are easier to follow than the previous songs. This song also features some brief clean vocals on a briefly sung chorus, which isn’t too bad. Overall this is the best song yet and a certain HIGHLIGHT, and the first song that immediately feels like Id’ go back to it on a later listen.

4. Broken Birds
Now THIS, is great songwriting. This song is absolutely amazing… if you just read the lyrics on their own without hitting the play button. Unfortunately, the lyrics in this sung are screamed so fast and are so “muddled” sounding that it is very difficult to understand what the lead singer is saying. Particularly in the first two lines, great ones that read, “broken birds cant fly/and broken bells cant sing”. This song really challenges those who believe they have life all figured out and yet don’t know Jesus Christ, and the song is really pointed. The lines in this song are amazing. “now you lose your soul every day/as it wastes away/you cant face the day /you waste away/you cant face the day/you lose your soul every day /the hands around your throat are your own.” I think sadly, that these lyrics do not match the style of the vocals or the music. This made me sad because the opening moments of this song are awesome, you think something amazing is in store, and there is… until the music plays. Although I love the “i wanna give my memory to the flame/ i wanna burn it all away” part. Regardless, this is definitely a HIGHLIGHT. And overall this is a powerful song.

5. A SIMPLE THOUGHT THAT CHANGED EVERYTHING
This is a great song. For once, To Speak of Wolves decides to slow it down and not scream their crazy lyrics in their crazy way throughout the whole sung. Nope, instead most of the verses and portions of this song are SUNG. Not a positive thing when you’re a hardcore metal band of this sort, as the singing is the typical juvenile style that you’d expect from a band like UnderOath… that is, it grates on the nerves. However there is a lot of passion behind the words being spoke, and the song itself is quite beautiful. The song is from the point of view of a struggling Christian who can’t seem to reach his “Healer”, because his life is so hard and the pain blinds Him to God. This is reinforced through lines like, “this cross on my back/ has grown to be too much/ the crown on my head wont fit/my sword is dull from the drag/ i am the wounded carried / i’m not carrying the wounded / healer did you get my call?” However in the end, he realizes that all he has to do is believe, and he feels God near. A great song with effort that must be commended. The execution will be hard for some to swallow, and you’ll just have to deal with the voice given in the singing portions, but if you just get lost in the words you’ll come to love the song. I also love what they did near the end of the song to mix things up. And overall I felt that this song was very tight, and executed extremely well. A huge HIGHLIGHT and their first “ballad” on the record.

6. Nostalgia Seeds
Of all of the songs on the album so far, this one is the strongest both vocally and in showing off the typical style of this band at its best. The vocals here use lower growls instead of the typical yelling style of screams, and the lines of the song are screamed in a much more deliberate manner. This makes the song lyrics much easier to follow. This song is excellently paced, and is easily one of the best songs on the record so far. A clear HIGHLIGHT. Thematically, this song deals with a person who is taking the brunt of life and being crushed under it. Feeling hopeless and angry at God for not “being there”. With lines like, “the killing feeling / that i cant save my brothers / the loneliness of my father / the abandonment of my mother / the confused thoughts of my sister / raining on me / it’s always raining on me.” Definitely not a happy song, but one that is realistic with what a lot of young people go through in their broken family lives and many people will likely relate to it. HIGHLIGHT

7. Je Suis Fini
This strangely named song is another strong one vocally. The song starts out as a kind-of counter point to the last song, speaking of being strong in the face of adversity. However thematically it quickly degenerates into the same tired old themes that pervade on this record, and which the song itself attacks with the lines, “oh please release my body/ from the jaws of the beast / let my savage triumph be a sight for all to see / day in day out / all you taste is stagnation / so spit it out / it’s getting so old.” Sadly, this type of juvenile drama IS getting old by this point in the record and the themes of a rough life beating you down is starting to wear thin. Although this song offers some redemption, it pulls it back too far to ultimately be more redeeming than not. Even so, it’s another strong vocal performance like on the last track, Nostalgia Seeds.

Here is the Je Suis Fini music video from To Speak of Wolves:

8. Oregon
WOW. My respect for this band just rose up a notch thanks to this incredibly heart-wrenching song. This may be the second, if not first, best song on the album. The song tells the all-too-common story of the pain that his parents bare with them due to their failures in life. And the manner in which the love between them and the love for others is wasted… This line in particular hit me hard: “well i rest my head / and i cry myself to sleep / cause they’re both lonely / when there’s no need to be / and that kills me.” Man can I relate to that. Overall this was an outstanding song. If there’s any one that you download, be sure it is this one. GREATEST HIGHLIGHT

9. Dialysis Dreams
The heavy themes continue from the last song with this one, which almost wholeheartedly revives the band in my eyes. This song conveys extremely powerful emotion of the regrets, sadness, confusion and loss that comes from losing a loved one; how that effects a person and how that person cannot change the circumstances and is powerless to do so. Additionally this song is done in a real personal manner, you can feel the pain… because the vocalist is talking about himself (or the person who wrote the song, using pronouns like I) and that adds so much more emotion and power to the song. This line can’t help but to move you, “everyday i lose a memory / i feel the pull of time / a piece of me dies / a bit of my life unwinds / but i’ll never ask why / because everyone grows and everybody dies.” Powerful stuff. HIGHLIGHT

10. Voidmaker
This song takes the band back into familiar territory from earlier on the record, with a return to themes about the difficulties, tribulations and trials of life and questioning God and the like. This song is done pretty well though, and by this time you are getting more used to their style and lyrics. I love the ending of this song when the music cuts out and switches up, although I thought the end vocals at that part could’ve been done much clearer. Overall this is a pretty good song. It’s worth noting that the title of this album is taken from the final line of this song, “find your worth / come home”. I liked these lines in particular: “changing lines and shifting sides / coward cant you grow a spine? / you will fail the test of time … oh, defiant lion tearing your way through life / blood in my teeth but i’m still thirsty.”

11. Rearview Memories (featuring Levi The Poet and Bree Macallister)
HOLY…. *wipes tears* I am speechless. This song literally led me to tears and made me wept. This is flat out one of the most powerful and heart-wrenching songs I have EVER heard in my entire life. This song has singlehandedly pulled this album from the grave of “average” and violently shoved it into greatness. This TRUE HIGHLIGHT is a song like no other… made up of spoken testimony, real stories of real people… whose lives were shattered by the suicide of that one individual. One point of view is from the daughter, who is asking God questions but has a forgiving heart, and is trying to remember the good aspects of their relationship. The other is one of complete anger, especially due to the fact that it led to the daughter’s downfall, as bitterness at God and life grew in her heart. “she took off her crown / i watched it shatter when it hit the ground.” This song gives you chills, and I’m still being moved by it. If this song doesn’t make you re-evaluate life, then check your pulse. You may already be dead. A must listen. BUY THIS SONG NOW. (buy Rearview Memories by To Speak of Wolves on Amazon MP3)

* Previous albums by To Speak of Wolves
– Myself, Letting Go (2010, Solid State)
– Following Voices (2009, Indie?)

Music Album Reviews
9. Between Here & Lost By Love And Death (helmed by Brian “Head” Welch Former Korn Lead Guitarist) [Posted: January 25 2013]
8. I AM By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: September 14th 2012)
7. Find Your Worth Come Home By To Speak of Wolves (Posted: May 25, 2012)
6. Celestial Progression (Remix Album) By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: May 21, 2012)
5 Return to Life By War of Ages (Posted: April 28, 2012)
4. Thousand Foot Krutch – The End Is Where We Begin (Posted: April 20, 2012)
3. KJ-52 – Dangerous (Posted: April 16, 2012)
2. Manafest – Fighter (Posted: April 15, 2012)
1. Demon Hunter – True Defiance (Posted: April 10, 2012)

Videogame Reviews:
5. Turok: Dinosaur Hunter (N64) [Posted: January 31 2013]
4. Resident Evil: Code Veronica Review (Dreamcast) [Posted: October 5 2012]
3. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (PS1, GameCube) [Posted: September 18th 2012]
2. Resident Evil 2 (GameCube) [Posted: September 3rd 2012]
1. Resident Evil Remake (GameCube) [Posted: August 14 2012]

Gilmore Girls Reviews
4. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 4 – The Deer Hunters
3. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 3 – Kill Me Now
2. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 2 – The Lorelais’ First Day At Chilton Review
1. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 1 – Pilot Review

Movie Reviews
3. The Amazing Spider-Man [Posted: December 1 2012]
2. Prometheus (Ridley Scott’s Alien Prequel) [Posted On: November 25 2012]
1. Warhorse (By Steven Spielberg) [Posted On: November 11 2012]

LISTENTOMEPLAY podcasts:
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 6
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 5
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast. RE0 Intro (Part 1)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Finale (Part 7)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Parts 5 and 6
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Finale (Part 5)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Parts 2 And 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast Final Master Run (Claire Redfield)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast (Leon Scenario A On Normal)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Real Survival Mode Chris
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion “Through A Virgin’s Eyes” Podcast Part 1 – Guest Mr. Z
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 1 – Guest: RedWinged Angel
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Podcast – Guest: MyDad

WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Let’s Play Videos
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 7 – Empty Bottle GET! Deku Palace And Magic Beans
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 6 – Granny Robbin For Blast Mask And Kamaro Dance
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 5 – The Thief And the Curiosity Shop Dealer
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 4 – Bomb Bag, Bremen Mask, Scarecrow’s Song
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 3 – Bomber’s Notebook
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 2 – Repeating Yesterday
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 1 – Intro and Opening

Other WatchMePlay Series
* WatchMePlay Perfect Dark Xbox 360
* WatchMePlay Super Smash Bros.
* WatchMePlay Super Meat Boy

 

Album Review: Celestial Progression By Becoming the Archetype (Remix Album)

The cover artwork for Celestial Progression, a new remix album by Becoming the Archetype.

Be warned headbangers, Becoming the Archetype’s remix album Celestial Progression is sure to disappoint if you go into the album thinking of metal bliss and expecting to headbang to some awesome remixes. Awesome this album ain’t.

What you get instead are extremely lowkey, slow, techno-style remixes that don’t impress in the slightest with the amazing source material that the remixers were given to play around with. I cannot put into words how disappointed I am with this album. There is so much cool stuff that could’ve been done with such an amazing and diverse work as Celestial Completion… is any of that put to good use here? Nope. I feel like any of these songs could’ve been made by a fan. Like something you’d find by some 12 year old that’s good at remixing and uploaded to youtube. This is the type of stuff you’d expect to hear on a remix site like “OC Remix”, not a professional release from a major label.

Basically the remixes have taken all of the edge out of Becoming the Archetype… and what you get are subpar remixes that attempt to take Becoming into a very slow direction. They’re not necessarily bad or horrible or anything, they’re just… there. Unimpressively. You keep waiting for something awesome to happen… And then it doesn’t. Very, very sad. At least this is just a filler as BtA gears up for their next REAL album with their all-new vocalist; but I believe this album will leave a bad taste in the mouth of fans, and will whet the appetite of absolutely NO ONE. “Fail”. *cries*

Now let’s go through “Celestial Progression” track-by-track, these opinions mark my INITIAL LISTEN, as I wrote this review as I listened to the album for the first time.

Song #1. Breathing Liquid (Born of Water Remix) (4:13)
This song starts off extremely slow… and that slowness is carried throughout the song. This song was really disappointing to me, as I was expecting the album to start off with a bang, and something that sounded really cool. And I don’t believe that Breathing Liquid (a very cool name) fits that criteria. Although the first “wubbing” part with Jason Wisdom’s awesome vocals is definitely a high point. The song is a remix of the final track from Celestial Completion, called “Breathing Light”, and uses vocals from the song throughout. I really disliked the singing portion and how it was remixed here… of course Breathing Light is one of my least favorite tracks on Celestial Completion (it’s the one I skip the most), so maybe that has something to do with it. But overall I just found this track to be lacking and nothing special. It feels like your average techno-style remix.

Song #2. We Ride (Giant Robot Remix) (2:40)
This song starts off with a slow remix of the main chorus from “Beam of Light” (My FAVORITE song from Celestial Progression), however I’m just not a fan of the way the vocals are generally mixed in this album… There is no punch to them, and they are kinda muddled. Once again, I was expecting something fast-paced or cool sounding, and this Giant Robot remix doesn’t deliver at all, and in fact goes in the opposite direction. Which to me seems like a huge wasted opportunity for such a badass song as Beam of Light… This was another subpar song IMHO.

Song #3. Invisible Sitar (Giant Robot Remix) (4:12)
Now THIS is what I’m talking about! This song starts out with a very cool sounding, slight remix of the “Invisible Creature” interlude track from Celestial Completion that plays before “Cardiac Rebellion”. It’s a really Egyptian sounding song, like something you’d expect to hear in Aladdin with a Cobra snake tempter. Basically this same tune plays throughout the song, and even plays as vocals from the “Requiem Aeternam” trilogy from Celestial Completion are overlaid over it (a VERY cool touch!). Once again this isn’t exactly what I was hoping to hear on this album, but this song is leagues ahead of the other two and sounds pretty sweet simply because the Egyptian tune is such an awesome one. The song changes the tune and adds enough to it to stretch it out throughout the track without it becoming too tiresome or repetitive, although you will think that for a bit as you realize that the same tune is extended through the WHOLE song. But either way this is definitely the single STANDOUT track so far. Even then I wouldn’t say this track is necessarily anything special.

Song #4. Elemental Bond (Giant Robot Remix) (3:22)
This song starts out with a remix of … some music I recognize but can’t quite place at the moment. It has a kinda cool, operatic sound to it… however once again it’s pretty slow and too laid back… and the same tune is played throughout. It’s a great tune, so the track isn’t a whole loss. But it just feels like it doesn’t do enough with it… This track doesn’t feature any vocals, which was surprising. Another disappointing track IMHO. I’m sensing a trend. :(

Song #5. Space Refraction (Giant Robot Remix) (3:15)
This song opens with a pretty cool intro, with the main tune of “Reflect/Refract” from Celestial Completion being played over some Castlevania-style music, which slows down considerably for a piano section. This song is saved thanks to the fact that it replays some of the coolest bits of Reflect/Refract, although once again it kinda has that muddled sound to it which is somewhat annoying. This would have to be my second favorite track, simply because it has a cooler sound than any of the other songs so far and does an alright job by using some of the great instrumental sections of the source song. No vocals on this track once again…

Song #6. Magnetic World (Giant Robot Remix) (4:04)
This song is a remix of “Magnetic Sky”, starting off with “The final chapter, has already been written, the story has already… been told” sung line from Celestial Completion while then transitioning into a very slow piano piece. This remix has a kinda emotional feel to it and the music does move you, but the lyrics don’t really fit to this music… you can see what they were going for though. And this feels like a better thought out song than the previous remixes, with a real theme to it, a sad theme, that carries the song throughout. It does a good job of it, and I think this will be one of the few tracks that you will go back and listen to again after you finish the album. Especially near the end, the track really layers on the somber tone. This is a definite HIGHLIGHT, but not an impressive song. Much like the entire album.

In the end, I cannot recommend this album to anyone. It’s, quite simply, as average as they come. There are no real standout tracks, and it only has SIX of them. I feel like most people will be entirely disappointed by this album… although if you go into it knowing what to expect, you may be able to get some enjoyment out of it. As for me, I’ll pretend it never existed and twiddle my thumbs some more until Becoming the Archetype returns to the scene with their next metal album.

Score: 5 out of 10 Stars (Completely and utterly average).

Becoming the Archetype is among my top three favorite bands of all time, including Demon Hunter and The Showdown, all bands from Solid State. Despite the low review scores of this album, all of Becoming the Archetype’s albums are incredible and I urge you to pick all of them up, you will NOT be disappointed! The first album you should pick up is the absolutely awe-inspiring Dichotomy, which is one of the greatest Christian albums ever made in my humble opinion!

Previous Albums By Becoming the Archetype:
* O’ Holy Night (Christmas Single, December 26, 2011)
* Celestial Completion (March 29, 2011)
* Necrotizing Fasciitis (Intense Death Metal Single, Oct 27, 2009
* Dichotomy (November 24, 2008)
* The Physics of Fire (May 8, 2007)
* Terminate Damnation (Aug 30, 2005)

Music Album Reviews
9. Between Here & Lost By Love And Death (helmed by Brian “Head” Welch Former Korn Lead Guitarist) [Posted: January 25 2013]
8. I AM By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: September 14th 2012)
7. Find Your Worth Come Home By To Speak of Wolves (Posted: May 25, 2012)
6. Celestial Progression (Remix Album) By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: May 21, 2012)
5 Return to Life By War of Ages (Posted: April 28, 2012)
4. Thousand Foot Krutch – The End Is Where We Begin (Posted: April 20, 2012)
3. KJ-52 – Dangerous (Posted: April 16, 2012)
2. Manafest – Fighter (Posted: April 15, 2012)
1. Demon Hunter – True Defiance (Posted: April 10, 2012)

Videogame Reviews:
5. Turok: Dinosaur Hunter (N64) [Posted: January 31 2013]
4. Resident Evil: Code Veronica Review (Dreamcast) [Posted: October 5 2012]
3. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (PS1, GameCube) [Posted: September 18th 2012]
2. Resident Evil 2 (GameCube) [Posted: September 3rd 2012]
1. Resident Evil Remake (GameCube) [Posted: August 14 2012]

Gilmore Girls Reviews
4. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 4 – The Deer Hunters
3. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 3 – Kill Me Now
2. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 2 – The Lorelais’ First Day At Chilton Review
1. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 1 – Pilot Review

Movie Reviews
3. The Amazing Spider-Man [Posted: December 1 2012]
2. Prometheus (Ridley Scott’s Alien Prequel) [Posted On: November 25 2012]
1. Warhorse (By Steven Spielberg) [Posted On: November 11 2012]

LISTENTOMEPLAY podcasts:
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 6
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 5
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast. RE0 Intro (Part 1)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Finale (Part 7)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Parts 5 and 6
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Finale (Part 5)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Parts 2 And 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast Final Master Run (Claire Redfield)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast (Leon Scenario A On Normal)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Real Survival Mode Chris
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion “Through A Virgin’s Eyes” Podcast Part 1 – Guest Mr. Z
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 1 – Guest: RedWinged Angel
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Podcast – Guest: MyDad

WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Let’s Play Videos
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 7 – Empty Bottle GET! Deku Palace And Magic Beans
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 6 – Granny Robbin For Blast Mask And Kamaro Dance
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 5 – The Thief And the Curiosity Shop Dealer
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 4 – Bomb Bag, Bremen Mask, Scarecrow’s Song
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 3 – Bomber’s Notebook
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 2 – Repeating Yesterday
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 1 – Intro and Opening

Other WatchMePlay Series
* WatchMePlay Perfect Dark Xbox 360
* WatchMePlay Super Smash Bros.
* WatchMePlay Super Meat Boy

 

Album Review: War of Ages – Return to Life, 6th Full-Length

The killer album artwork for Return to Life by War of Ages. A visual representation of resurrection from death.

My Return to Life review (War of Ages) takes a look at the newest record from the Christian metalheads who return to the metal scene with their sixth full-length album! Be sure to buy Return to Life by War of Ages on Amazon and support these guys!

After obtaining their highest critical praise yet for their previous album, “Eternal” produced by Tim Lambesis of As I Lay Dying, does Return to Life elevate the band even further?

In a quick word, no it doesn’t. Although I say that as someone who never sat down and listened to Eternal all the way through, having only heard the album as others played it. Everyone I know thought it was their best album yet and absolutely loved it. And what I’ve heard was very good. I actaully own the album but have never sat down and listened to it fully. FOR SHAME.

So take that info for what you will.

“Return to Life” from War of Ages sounds like a “return to form” for the album, and maybe that was partly what inspired the title. This album sounds exactly the way the band used to sound on albums like “Pride of the Wicked”, “Fire From the Tomb” and “Arise & Conquer” (all three of which I own, Eternal was the only album of theirs I never got around to buying; even though I intended to pre-order it). If you loved what you heard on those records, then you are sure to dig “Return to Life”.

Basically their sound is exactly the same on those albums and to my untrained ear sounds exactly like they have always sounded. And to me that makes this album sound as forgettable as their previous releases. To me, while I love me some random War of Ages, I could not name you a single song from past albums if a gun was put to my head. Everything simply blends in with each other and no tracks feel distinctive. While that is not a flaw in and of itself necessarily (it depends on what kind of music you are looking for), I do think it is a knock against the album. It simply means that the album has not elevated them any. I don’t know about you, but I always want my albums to be memorable and to impress, and I didn’t feel that on this album DESPITE a few standout tracks (virtually of them towards the end of the album. The last three all kill it in particular).

In the end, I give the album 6 out of 10 stars. Which means it’s “above average”. Harsh? Maybe… but I feel like it was a disappointing album and I feel like it is a stepback from Eternal. Even though I never sat down and listened to Eternal, that album felt much more distinctive from what I recall. This album almost feels like an album that was recorded with production that wasn’t as high as on Eternal… even though that’s not the case, but that’s the kind of vibe I get. Like I said, a step back.

Having said that, here is my breakdown of each track from “Return to Life” as I listened to them. It’s also important to note that I didn’t have lyrics in my review copy from the publisher, and could not find lyrics ANYWHERE online. I’m bugging the publisher to send them to me, so hopefully they will. Regardless though, I have listened to enough of War of Ages to be able to hear Leroy Hamp’s words and understand them without any real problems. Typically though I will NOT listen to a metal record if I don’t have the lyrics.

Song #1 – Immortal (4:00)
The first track is a powerful opener, although its not until the guitar solo of the song that I really jumped out my seat and found the song amazing. The lyrics are pretty good from what I can tell and I really love the shouting on this track. Overall this is a good song, but it sounds exactly like what you think War of Ages should sound like and nothing more… and I really hesitate to say it is great. As the first half of the song is kinda forgettable. I love the sermon opener though.

 

Album Review: The End Is Where We Begin by Thousand Foot Krutch. TFK’s 6th Full-Length

Infinity Flame logo, TFK's new Indie album The End Is Where We Begin.

Thousand Foot Krutch, or TFK, has been going strong since the early mid 1990s and is one of the strongest and most popular Christian bands in existence that has crossed over and had mainstream success.

Starting out as a nu-metal band, TFK’s first album (Shutterbug) was independently released in 1995. The band has Neil Sanderson drumming, who’d later go on to join the extremely popular rockband Three Days Grace. That initial album was released independently. It would be followed by another indie album, That’s What People Do (1997), before the band finally got signed with Tooth & Nail Records and released their debut major-label album, Set It Off, in 2000. This is the album that established the bands strong nu-metal sound and rapping style. Their next album, Phenomenon, was arguably an even bigger success, earning the band a huge hit with the song “Rawkfist” and making comparisons to bands like Linkin Park; this album had a much stronger edge. That album would be proceeded by many others, including The Art of Breaking (2005), The Flame In All Of Us (2007), Welcome to the Masquerade (2009) and finally, going Indie once again, The End Is Where We Begin, released on April 17th, 2012. Additionally, Deju Vu: The TFK Anthology (2009) marked a compilation album of Phenomenon, The Art of Breaking and The Flame In All Of Us and 2011’s Live At the Masquerade marked the bands first live album released.

Faith Is A Rebel/I Can Show You The Devil line from the song Light Up the Sky off Thousand Foot Krutch's The End Is Where We Begin.

This newest album was funded via the TFK Kickstarter campaign, where the band had a goal of raising $40,000 and went on to raise $105,294! Absolutely insane, eh.

Now the album is finally here. I am happy to report that this is, BY FAR, the greatest album the band has ever recorded, in my humble opinion (barring Welcome to the Masquerade, as that is an album I never heard). Go out and BUY THIS ALBUM NOW. You will NOT be disappointed!

Let’s go through “The End Is Where We Begin” track-by-track, these opinions mark my INITIAL LISTEN, as I wrote this review as I listened to the album for the first time.

Song #1: The Introduction (1:00) – AWESOME. Love it.

Song #2: We Are (3:18) – This song starts off the album on a great footing, although the song is not as bombastic as I was expecting and possibly hoping for. Even still it’s an awesome song and I love the chorus and the lyrics, “We are the ones, we are the guns… We are the voice of a song unsung”. Great stuff.

Song #3: Light Up the Sky (3:59) – This song immediately takes the record in an interesting direction as the lyrics here are spoken in more of a rap-style, but it’s a slow and deliberate one that doesn’t sound like he’s trying too hard. That makes it come off in excellent style, and I love the bridge part of this song. The verses are quite awesome as well, “Cause faith, that’s a rebel, I can show you the devil… No where else have I seen such lions led by lambs.” This is a really cool song, I dig the slower pace while still keeping it rockin’.

Song #4: The End Is Where We Begin (3:44) – This is a radio friendly, anthem style track for the band that reminds me of a great P.O.D. track. It’s got a slower pace and a great singable chorus and a real driving beat. I love the weird instruments for the intro that carry throughout the song. This definitely a HIGHLIGHT.

Thousand Foot challenges you to Be the Change in The End Is Where We Begin.

Song #5: Let The Sparks Fly (4:06) – NOW THIS IS WHERE IT’S AT! This is an absolutely rockin’, electric track that’s as good as anything TFK has done in a long time in my humble opinion. It’s very reminiscent of their older material, both in how hard it rocks and the way the song is song. This is a definite HIGHLIGHT. Unfortunately, this was the first song posted online from the band so a lot of people have heard it already.

Song #6: I Get Wicked (3:32) – This is a REALLY interesting song for TFK, it combines both a rap-style and a rock style. It’s a heavy rocker with a sung chorus, and some weird lyrics. This is a definite HIGHLIGHT, and done really well. But in a style that’s a little different for TFK. Doesn’t sound like anything they’ve ever done before in my humble opinion.

Song #7: Be Someday (3:42) – This is a really strong slow song. It’s got powerful lyrics that are sung in a really emotional way that really makes a powerful connection with the listener and pulls on the heartstrings. A very strong and powerful song. Excellent. “We’re all see through, just like glass, and we can shatter just as fast/That light’s been burned out for a while, I still see it everytime I pass/It was lost in the corner’s of my mind, behind a box of reasons why.”

Song #8: Courtesy Call (3:56) – BOOM! This song is freakin’ incredible, possibly one of the best they’e ever done. It mixes up several really interesting styles of vocals with both a hard rap edge, singing and rockin’ and layered with a super epic orchestral sound, with an intro that completely seals the deal and slams it home with the outro. AWESOME.

Song #9: War of Change (3:51) – Man they never cease to keep impressing me on this album. This song is another incredible piece and an absolute winner. They keep changing up the vocals and adding really cool experimental elements that really elevate the whole piece. This song is an outstanding example. I love the chorus and some of the awesome lyrics. “I want to live like I know I’m dying/Take up my Cross, Not be afraid/Is it true what they say? That words are weapons?/And if it is, then everybody best stop steppin’/Cause I got 10 in my pocket that’ll bend ya locket” LOVE IT. HIGHLIGHT for sure.

Song #10: Down (3:27) – SHAZAM! That’s all you can say with this song. It starts off with a bang and NEVER let’s up with some absolutely awesome lyrics. They keep impressing and this song is one of the best on the record! The intro is absolute heaviness and the lyrics are spoken with conviction. This song provides a fitting anthem to all the doubters and naysayers who want you to believe you won’t amount to anything or won’t be able to pursue your dreams like you see fit… As Trevor shouts in this song, no one told him he’d amount to anything on the mic, and that anyone could sing his songs. Well, he’s proved them all wrong. TFK FOR LIFE!

Song #11: All I Need To Know (4:09) – Wow. Talk about a change of pace! This song is absolutely beautiful, and TFK has proven a dozen times over that they can absolutely do heart-wrending ballads with the best of them. This song is absolute proof of that.

Song #12: Fly On the Wall (4:02) – EPIC! Absolutely, flat-out, draw-dropping epicness. This song is absolutely perfect and mind-blowingly awesome. This song tells a very powerful story about a world divided. It is absolutely a MUST LISTEN. Buy this song now and you’ll immediately purchase this whole album and will NOT be disappointed. I’m still picking my jaw up off the floor. INCREDIBLE.

Song #13: So Far Gone (4:29)- :O Im speechless. Touching, memorable, heart-moving, beautiful, worship from the soul… This song is absolutely as perfect as can be and will give you chills. And leave you worshipping The Creator like you never have before. This song has sealed the deal. This album gets a 10 out of 10 from me. BUY IT NOW.

All in all, there is not a SINGLE song from this album that I dislike, and I feel like this album just dropped an absolute BOMBSHELL right on my face. This is the best stuff they have wrote in YEARS. 10 Stars out of 10 Stars from me! BUY IT!

The End Is Where We Begin Thousand Foot Krutch Logo from art book.

Here is the exact tracklist (I didn’t include the interludes above):

1. The Introduction (1:00)
2. We Are (3:18)
3. Light Up the Sky (3:59)
4. The End Is Where We Begin (3:44)
5. Let the Sparks Fly (4:06)
6. I Get Wicked (3:32)
7. Be Somebody (3:42)
8. This Is A Warning (0:46)
9. Courtesy Call (3:56)
10. War of Change (3:51)
11. Down (3:27)
12. All I Need To Know (4:09)
13. Fly On the Wall (4:02)
14. So Far Gone (4:29)
15. Outroduction (0:37)

Music Album Reviews
9. Between Here & Lost By Love And Death (helmed by Brian “Head” Welch Former Korn Lead Guitarist) [Posted: January 25 2013]
8. I AM By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: September 14th 2012)
7. Find Your Worth Come Home By To Speak of Wolves (Posted: May 25, 2012)
6. Celestial Progression (Remix Album) By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: May 21, 2012)
5 Return to Life By War of Ages (Posted: April 28, 2012)
4. Thousand Foot Krutch – The End Is Where We Begin (Posted: April 20, 2012)
3. KJ-52 – Dangerous (Posted: April 16, 2012)
2. Manafest – Fighter (Posted: April 15, 2012)
1. Demon Hunter – True Defiance (Posted: April 10, 2012)

Videogame Reviews:
5. Turok: Dinosaur Hunter (N64) [Posted: January 31 2013]
4. Resident Evil: Code Veronica Review (Dreamcast) [Posted: October 5 2012]
3. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (PS1, GameCube) [Posted: September 18th 2012]
2. Resident Evil 2 (GameCube) [Posted: September 3rd 2012]
1. Resident Evil Remake (GameCube) [Posted: August 14 2012]

Gilmore Girls Reviews
4. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 4 – The Deer Hunters
3. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 3 – Kill Me Now
2. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 2 – The Lorelais’ First Day At Chilton Review
1. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 1 – Pilot Review

Movie Reviews
3. The Amazing Spider-Man [Posted: December 1 2012]
2. Prometheus (Ridley Scott’s Alien Prequel) [Posted On: November 25 2012]
1. Warhorse (By Steven Spielberg) [Posted On: November 11 2012]

LISTENTOMEPLAY podcasts:
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 6
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 5
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast. RE0 Intro (Part 1)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Finale (Part 7)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Parts 5 and 6
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Finale (Part 5)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Parts 2 And 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast Final Master Run (Claire Redfield)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast (Leon Scenario A On Normal)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Real Survival Mode Chris
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion “Through A Virgin’s Eyes” Podcast Part 1 – Guest Mr. Z
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 1 – Guest: RedWinged Angel
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Podcast – Guest: MyDad

WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Let’s Play Videos
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 7 – Empty Bottle GET! Deku Palace And Magic Beans
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 6 – Granny Robbin For Blast Mask And Kamaro Dance
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 5 – The Thief And the Curiosity Shop Dealer
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 4 – Bomb Bag, Bremen Mask, Scarecrow’s Song
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 3 – Bomber’s Notebook
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 2 – Repeating Yesterday
* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 1 – Intro and Opening

Other WatchMePlay Series
* WatchMePlay Perfect Dark Xbox 360
* WatchMePlay Super Smash Bros.
* WatchMePlay Super Meat Boy

 

Album Review: KJ-52 Dangerous, 7th Full Length Album

KJ-52's 7th full-length album Dangerous impresses.

KJ-52 is a tough nut to crack. Dangerous marks the 7th full-length album from the man who may be the hardest working dude in the business. And that’s not a statement I make lightly.

KJ-52 has been going strong for over a decade, despite what you think of him, despite how he is mocked by “elite” rappers, the guy keeps blazing a trail and continuing to not only write and work on his own material, but to collaborate with the BEST in the business. If these other players can give KJ-52 respect, isn’t it about time the haters do the same? Like any artist, you can take it, or you can leave it…

Blue eyes, white skin, brown hair... rapper?

Dangerous is no different. If you hated KJ-52 before, this album will do absolutely nothing to change your mind… although you’d be ignoring all of the awesome beats and dope spits from collaborating rappers who make their mark known on this album, including the almighty LeCrae. Other collaborators on Dangerous include This’l, George Moss, Canton Jones, Rhema Soul and Dre Murray. Female vocals on some songs are provided by Emily of Shine Bright Baby. All of it comes together to offer a fantastic album from beginning to end, and a diverse one. It’s an album where I like almost every track, always a positive thing.

KJ-52 is at his best when he is telling stories, or creating songs that are outright ridiculous and wholeheartedly goofy (see: “Do the Bill Cosby”). As it stands, and as it has always stood, KJ-52 cannot get by on his rap skills (or lack thereof) on its own, and my favorite songs always end up being the ones where KJ-52 is not doing the majority of rapping. While that may sound like an extremely harsh thing to say and a real knock on the artist, it is DESPITE this fact that KJ-52 is still able to craft some amazing and great songs. And that, to me, speaks volumes. You cannot deny this man’s work ethic, and all of his albums, Dangerous included, drip with the passion of a man whose sole purpose is to spread the love of Christ and speak his mind through rapped lyrics; damn the critics. And I wholeheartedly embrace his approach.

Kj-52 has been highly successful in the Christian scene, winning four Dove Awards for his rap music.

What’s further is that he has proven his ability to craft songs that tell interesting stories and pull on the heartstrings, and that is an art in its own right. If you know KJ-52’s past albums, you know this fact to be true (see songs like “#1 Fan” from the album “It’s Pronounced Five-Two”). KJ-52 also has the ability to craft catchy, singable choruses and absolutely dope music to go along with his rapping sections, which in all cases elevates the whole and manages to make up for the lack of skillfull rapping.

Let’s face it, no one else would do the kind of songs KJ-52 does, collaborating with everyone from hardcore gangsta rappers to bubbly-sweet pop singers, to mixing it up with rock artists to combining rap with comedy skits and pumping out worship hits that would fit perfectly well on a CCM (Contemporary Christian Music) setlist… Dangerous does all that and does it well. And despite what I said above about most of my favorite KJ-52 songs being the ones where others rap besides KJ-52, he still manages to hold his own in a number of tracks. Additionally, and this has been true in the past as well (and mostly true with music in general), KJ-52’s songs grow on you the more you listen to them, Dangerous being no exception. And after a while your misgrievings about his lack of rap skill are dropped and you just embrace the music in front of you. I mean who really gives a crap? Music is music, and KJ-52 creates some great music on his albums. Period.

When I first dove into Dangerous, it had been years since I had listened to a new KJ-52 record. I will dig him up from time to time and listen to his past albums, but the last new KJ-52 album I bought was “Behind the Musik”. In retrospect, I think I really enjoyed that album, and yet for some reason I see it with negative eyes and seem to want to think of it as his weakest album to that point. Maybe it’s because I lost some interest with KJ-52 after that point, because I never got around to picking up any of his proceeding albums until Dangerous dropped on April 3rd, 2012 (BEC provided me with a free review copy of the final Master).

I will make some more (some would say outlandish) comments regarding KJ-52 near the bottom, as well as go into his past and his entire discography, but before I do that I want to really spend time looking at Dangerous objectively and reviewing the album track-by-track. So here we go!

Track #1. It’s Going Down (Featuring Canton Jones)
Dangerous starts off with a bang by giving us this rough and wild club banger. This is a pretty strong opening track, and its one in which you expect KJ-52 to be joined by another rapper, but he is the one rapping throughout. This track has some bite to it and that’s always a good thing. As has always been the case with KJ-52, his rapping skills stand out much stronger on some tracks than on others, and this is one of those tracks. Although not the best on the album. Overall this track is a winner in my opinion and “It’s Going Down” is one of my favorites on the album. A HIGHLIGHT for sure.

Track #2. They Like Me (Feat. Lecrae)
NOW THIS is a collaboration worth praising. And this is arguably the track that will compel most people, especially those who either love LeCrae and the 116 Clique and have never heard of or listened to KJ-52, or those who love KJ-52 but haven’t picked up one of his albums in a while, to go out and get Dangerous. That’s because seeing these two “titans” come together is definitely a treat.

And those who may have dismissed KJ-52 in the past or saw him as a wannabe rapper who didn’t have the skills to pay the bills, will likely do a double-take and pick up this track or this album just because of the fact that the almighty LeCrae (arguably the best and most exciting Christian rapper in the business and arguably the best the Christian rap game has seen in years) has deemed KJ-52 worthy of a collaboration. IMHO this REALLY elevates both of these guys. It elevates LeCrae because it shows that he is willing to work with ANYONE who shares his passion for spreading the gospel, and that he doesn’t judge no matter what others think of that individual. And it elevates KJ-52 because it proves that his work ethic is so strong, and he has such a diverse audience, that rappers know they’ll get exposure they wouldn’t have otherwise gotten by collaborating with KJ-52. It also shows that KJ-52, despite what you think of his skills as a rapper, is respected in the Christian rap scene, and people enjoy working with the guy.

 

Album Review: Manafest Fighter, Sixth Full Length Album

Mountains in your way? Conquer them like a FIGHTER. Manifest. Destiny.

Manafest is a man on a mission. He’s come a LONG way from his roots as a white, Skateboardin’, Canadian, Christian rapper. Not only has he continued to hone his craft and his rapping skills, he has transitioned into the world of rock music. “Fighter” was released to record stores everyone on April 10th, 2012.

The rock music came much more recently, but burst outta this rapper’s stockpile of weapons thanks in large part to the support of Thousand Foot Krutch frontman and fellow white rock-rapper Trevor McNevan. However this new album proves without a doubt that Manafest and his band can stand head-and-shoulders above others on his strength and that of his band alone; as he pumps out a performance worthy of any other rockers this side of Red or Linkin Park. This may be the album that allows Mana to truly hit the big-time, and yet it contains a sound that is wholly unique while also offering songs that feature Mana’s trademark rapping sound, all with a super tight production and explosive punch. This is truly a diverse album, and one in which there is not a weak-link in the entire disc. Do yourself a favor and go out and BUY THIS RECORD. You won’t be disappointed. Every song has punch, fantastic lyrics, and rockin sounds.

Like the fire in this picture, Manafest explodes and rocks the house down with "Fighter", his new album.

“Fighter” marks Manafests 6th full-length album, and this is the only album I have heard from beginning to end. This is a sad fact, but it also bodes extremely well for the appeal of Manafest, given that I am pretty much a Manafest virgin. Although I have listened to a lot of his material online. I always meant to buy his albums but never got around to it… very sad of me. I did myself a disservice, I’ll now make it a mission to add his entire discography to my collection.

Manafest made his debut with 2001’s highly-praised but little-known EP “Misled Youth” (peep the songs on youtube, you’ll be impressed) and with 2003’s “My Own Thing”, both released Independently. That was followed by his major-label debut “Epiphany” (2005). Manafest got signed thanks to being noticed by Trevor, the lead singer of TFK (who is also a Christian rapper who loves rock, is white and from Canada :P) who became friends with Mana and got him signed to the Tooth & Nail family, initially under a new rap-focused sub-label called “Uprok Records”, latter transitioning to the BEC sublabel. Epiphany is the album that put Manafest on the map as a Christian rapper with his own unique style. That album was followed up with his Sophomore album “Glory” (2006). Glory was followed two years later by “Citizens Activ”. Manafest remained active himself and kept churning out new albums, with “The Chase” dropping in 2010, his first live album, “Manafest Live In Concert”, falling in 2011 and now “Fighter” hitting in 2012.

Misled Youth EP (2001)
My Own Thing (2003)
Epiphany (2005)
Glory (2006)
Citizens Activ (2008)
The Chase (2010)
Manafest Live In Concert (2011)
Fighter (2012)

Now let’s go through “Fighter” track-by-track, these opinions mark my INITIAL LISTEN, as I wrote this Fighter review as I listened to the album for the first time. Note: I found out later that the order I listened to the tracks in, the order given to me by BEC for my review copy, were not in the proper order as seen in the CDs actual tracklist. So I had to change some of my words around. This makes it seem like I am commenting at a time that was further than my “initial impression”, but that’s not the case. It’s just that I had to take out references to other tracks when it was in error due to the tracks being listened to in a manner that was not the original intent of the artist, since I listened to them out-of-order. Next time I’ll check online first instead of going by the order of the review copy. >_< I also left some words in even if it makes it seem out of place with the "first impression" claim. Gah. Just read it. lol.

1. Fighter – I love this song, it has “punch” that really shines through and knocks you off your feet as you first pop this disc in. The rapping in this song is done perfectly along with the rock parts and the chorus in my humble opinion. This song is definitely a high point, and a perfect radio single.

2. Throw It Away – “Christ dead, faded, how did we get so jaded? How long? Tomorrow? We can’t just throw it away.” This is an INCREDIBLE song and one of the most unique tracks on this album. This song is absolutely amazing in my opinion. All of the verses are good, and it’s a piece that makes an emotional connection with the listener (unlike some of the other songs). It not only has a rockin chorus and awesome music, but Manafest does some actual rapping on this song which is a nice change of pace; Flying in the face of most of the album which lacks his general rapping style. The message on this song is also an absolute winner. It’s hard to say, but this may actually be my favorite track, although I think I love all of them honestly…

3. Pushover – Yup. It’s official. Not a bad song on this disc. This song is another winner, it’s extremely heavy and absolutely rockin’. His vocal style on this song is different once again, and sounds a bit closer to his older rap style during the first verse. But once again he shows amazing diversity throughout this piece. The high portions of this song are absolutely off-the-chain. And the chorus is another good one. He also does some yelling in this song that gets a bit close to screaming. Not quite but still good.

4. Human – This song is INCREDIBLE. “Human” is the first real song on this album that has an emotional impact on the listener (error, listened to them out of order), and I found the verses to be really powerful. Not only that, but I can relate because a best friend of mine was just arrested recently, and I’ve yet to go visit him in prison. I’m very upset that he put himself in this compromising position, and will likely get YEARS behind bars… at the same time this song makes a powerful case and strict reminder to not forget these individuals. They may have made mistakes, but that doesn’t make them any less human. And the truth is that THEY NEED US. Because they have no one. They still bleed, they still hurt, just like the rest of us. Powerfull stuff, however I thought the song loses a bit of its luster after the second verse. I really like the chorus here, and Manafests rapping style is interesting on this song. It’s good to see him playing around with different vocal styles, it really makes his voice feel more distinctive, whereas his straight rapping voice is generally completely monotone. This another STANDOUT track!

5. Come Alive – I really like the chorus on this one, and the singing and rock parts are done great. This is a really good rock song. I’m not a big fan of the talking parts, which I always find kinda annoying in songs. But ultimately that doesn’t keep this track from being a great one, although it lacks the “punch” of Fighter. Glad they made Fighter the opener and not this track. (edit: I originally listened to this track first as it was marked as the opener on my review copy. So when I listened to Fighter, I thought… man Fighter should’ve been the opener not Come Alive! :P I fixed the text to read differently, saying I’m glad they didn’t make this the opener like I originally thought).

6. Never Let You Go – Arguably the best track on the whole album, depending on your preferences, is this slower ballad that is more like a fully-fledged worship song written by God to the listener. It’s an incredibly moving piece in both its studio and acoustic versions (you’re preference will vary) and it is sure to be a favorite for anyone who listens to it. What’s most amazing to me is the fact of whether or not Mana is actually the one singing the vocals. Did they replace him with someone else for this song or what? If they didn’t, then this is ONE HECK of an impressive singing job. I was absolutely floored. This song is full of emotion and really tugs at your heartstrings, and the chorus is outstanding. This is the type of track that can stand its own by itself, although it feels like it’s part of an entirely different album. Either way you shake it, it’s a five out of five stars track. And a HIGHLIGHT for sure! Buy it!

7. Not Alone – This song opens with a really heavy intro that is really cool. I also love the lyrical style of Mana on this song, again it’s not rap like you expect. By this time he really hammers home how great he can be as a rock artist, and his vocals on this song have all kinds of life. He shows lots of diversity, and speaks each line in a really interesting manner. I’m starting to think this album doesn’t have a single weak song…. This is another highlight. And I love the lyrics, they’re fantastic: “Broken inside, losing your sight, I know what’s it’s like to break… I know what you’re fighting for, you’re in the middle of a war, there’s still hope, you are not alone”

8. Prison Break – WOW. This song is absolutely flatout awesome. It’s amazing… this album seems to just keep getting better and better the further you listen. LOVE IT. This song is an absolutely knockout. A rock hit to stand with the best of them. And really puts Manafest in the same category as say Linkin Park or TFK, easily. The lyrics in “Prison Break” are also absolutely awesome and full of meaning. Just like I like it!

9. Heart Attack – Manafest’s custom sound comes shining through on this track, which just has that Manafest crunk to it that I love. Even though this track is more of a rock track, wouldn’t really classify it as rap in any sense of the word. But this song really proves that Manafest can hang with the best of the rock crowd. “Heart Attack” is a definite HIGHLIGHT!

10. Will You Catch Me? – This song has an interesting theme, as well as Manafest’s rapping style. It makes for an interesting mix, and is a song about a lost sheep who is a good kid but clings to the negative street lifestyle due to being ignored by those around him, his family and even the church… those who should’ve caught him as he fell. It’s an interesting concept, and this is a really good song on its own. It’s another hard rocker and I love the rapping style. Although if you listen to the album straight through, the theme begins to wear a bit stale by this point (Edit: One of the few songs on the review copy that actually lined up with its place on the actual album. No post-edits made here!). Either way, this song is still a great one and I think it’s a worthy album-ender, although it doesn’t feel like a proper closer (Edit: In error, cause the acoustic Never Let You Go, track 6 on my review copy, is the closer). Still the lyrics are fantastic, “Take this curse out of me, pull me outta the streets, I need a Savior tonight”. Excellent.

11. Never Let You Go (Acoustic) – Just as outstanding, if not moreso, than the original and a perfect closer to the album! (Edit: Woot woot! Glad to see the album end with this AMAZING piece)

If I was to rate this “Fighter” album numerically, something I don’t do, I’d give it 10 Stars out of 10 Stars. Suffice it to say, I am IMPRESSED. Mana outdid himself. BUY “FIGHTER” NOW! It’s an outstanding album!

Music Album Reviews
9. Between Here & Lost By Love And Death (helmed by Brian “Head” Welch Former Korn Lead Guitarist) [Posted: January 25 2013]
8. I AM By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: September 14th 2012)
7. Find Your Worth Come Home By To Speak of Wolves (Posted: May 25, 2012)
6. Celestial Progression (Remix Album) By Becoming the Archetype (Posted: May 21, 2012)
5 Return to Life By War of Ages (Posted: April 28, 2012)
4. Thousand Foot Krutch – The End Is Where We Begin (Posted: April 20, 2012)
3. KJ-52 – Dangerous (Posted: April 16, 2012)
2. Manafest – Fighter (Posted: April 15, 2012)
1. Demon Hunter – True Defiance (Posted: April 10, 2012)

Videogame Reviews:
5. Turok: Dinosaur Hunter (N64) [Posted: January 31 2013]
4. Resident Evil: Code Veronica Review (Dreamcast) [Posted: October 5 2012]
3. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis (PS1, GameCube) [Posted: September 18th 2012]
2. Resident Evil 2 (GameCube) [Posted: September 3rd 2012]
1. Resident Evil Remake (GameCube) [Posted: August 14 2012]

Gilmore Girls Reviews
4. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 4 – The Deer Hunters
3. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 3 – Kill Me Now
2. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 2 – The Lorelais’ First Day At Chilton Review
1. Gilmore Girls Season One Episode 1 – Pilot Review

Movie Reviews
3. The Amazing Spider-Man [Posted: December 1 2012]
2. Prometheus (Ridley Scott’s Alien Prequel) [Posted On: November 25 2012]
1. Warhorse (By Steven Spielberg) [Posted On: November 11 2012]

LISTENTOMEPLAY podcasts:
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 6
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* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 0 Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast Part 3
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* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Zero Podcast. RE0 Intro (Part 1)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Finale (Part 7)
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* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil: Code Veronica Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Finale (Part 5)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 4
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Parts 2 And 3
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 3 Podcast Part 1
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast Final Master Run (Claire Redfield)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil 2 Podcast (Leon Scenario A On Normal)
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Real Survival Mode Chris
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast
* ListenToMePlay Super Metroid Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion “Through A Virgin’s Eyes” Podcast Part 1 – Guest Mr. Z
* ListenToMePlay Oblivion Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 1 – Guest: RedWinged Angel
* ListenToMePlay The Witcher 2 Podcast Part 2
* ListenToMePlay Resident Evil Remake Podcast – Guest: MyDad

WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Let’s Play Videos
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* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 5 – The Thief And the Curiosity Shop Dealer
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* WatchMePlay Zelda: Majora’s Mask Part 3 – Bomber’s Notebook
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