Terror - Always the Hard Way
This is the first time Terror have been brought to my attention, despite their reasonable back-catalogue. After listening to the first song, it was clear where the band were going with this album - short, snappy, shouty metalcore. This album certainly delivers that; the longest track being a mere 2 minutes and 39 seconds long. The length of the tracks was the first thing to strike me about this album.
The second characteristic to make itself known was that each song ran straight into each other with almost no discernible character of their own. Whilst I was listening to this album, I was surprised when it finally ended. Somehow, I felt a little cheated as it was over so quickly with little to make itself stand out. Perhaps that is a little harsh? There is certainly a lot of passion involved in the lyrics, both in how they are sung and the words themselves. The guitarists certainly know what they are doing and lay down a very solid wall of sound. It isn't the fastest, thrashy-est sound in the world but there is definately talent in there. Somehow, it seems that the drummer is pushing the band to be faster than it needs to be.
"Always the hard way" is probably the most definitive song on the album. The lyrics are certainly passionate, the rhythm is suitably metal, and the guitarist lays down some powerful riffs. This song doesn't seem as rushed as others and is no doubt, responsible for several pits during their live performances.
"Hardship belongs to me" made my ears twitch with a slow, yet powerful opening mainly thanks to the guitarist who certainly proves his worth. Sadly, this didn't last very long and the all too familiar thrashing came back. None-the-less, the track had a good rhythm and some nice backing vocals.
"Smash through you" seems to have a little more rhythm and feeling than most of the tracks. Some more attention is given to the guitarist with less attention on the vocals. The pace is slower with more gaps where the guitarist shines. Interestingly, this is the longest track on the album and quite possibly, the best.
"Dibs and Murs Check in" is rather odd. For some reason we are treated to a short rap which certainly doesn't fit in with style thus far. Perhaps there is a story behind this? Maybe it was simply to break up the monotony? Either way, it certainly doesn't fit.
There are some rough diamonds on this album. After a couple of times around, the skill certainly comes through. Sadly, not all the songs are up to par. Certainly the shorter tracks don't live up to their longer lived brethren. Somehow, I don't see this album being on every metaller's shelf this year.