Reviewed by Ian Webber

For over 10 years, August Burns Red have been spreading a message of hope through bone-rattling metalcore. Within mainstream circles they have received recognition and acclaim with the way that they continue to develop and tweak their style, setting the standard for others to follow. With this, their seventh full length release, we hear a band that is technically outstanding and comfortable enough in their skin to throw in a few surprises. Although the majority of this recording is stacked with pummelling rhythms and crushing walls of sound all supporting the brutal vocals of Jake Luhrs, influences of country, South American sounds and even EDM can be heard. Each section further highlights the musical talents which are such a strength of this outfit. The way they slip between rasping exhortations and ambient sounds in "Martyr" is seamless. Jeremy McKinnon from A Day To Remember provides guest vocals on "Ghosts" adding a clean and melodic edge to a haunting, moody track. What shines through above every element, however, is just how tight this band is musically. Rapid fire drums pad throughout with impressive bass lines trading off against subtle guitar changes. Modern metal also gives way to a classic rock-sounding solo in "Identity". As an album that builds on previous releases, this bonus edition is worth seeking out by fans of hard music who want to hear a pioneering group at the top of their game.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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