Reviewed by Ian Webber

Compared to his previous output with bands like Kings & Daughters, this hard music frontman has launched himself in a completely different direction with this spoken word release on OnTheAttack Records. The nine tracks could be aptly described as aggressive poetry matched with laid back, ambient washes from a range of instruments. As a fully conceptual package, the recording relates an intense and personal description of Carlos' background and upbringing. The opening "Time Does Not" sets the scene with spacious guitars and relaxed drum beats providing a suitable backing for some dissatisfied and angry vocals. The gapless tracks run into one another as the tale unfolds, opening up new pictures of the challenges that Carlos has faced in life. "Forgive" presents some of the most harrowing images of a young boy being brought up in a broken home. Intense emotions are stirred as topics such as immigration and broken relationships make an appearance. "An Ode To Wilde Nights" is a much less melodic track with a more industrial feel that tells of a relationship that disintegrated. Crystal clear production is maintained throughout the album up until its close with the reflective and prayerful "Journal End". Salazar has managed to mix honest, personal contemplation with gripping storytelling. At times the content is haunting and at others, passionate. The intense emotions raised do, however, make this a challenging listen for one sitting. I appreciated the package as an engaging eye opener to the background of one of Christian metal's most aggressive vocalists.

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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