Reviewed by Ian Webber

Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, this foursome have opened for the likes of Decipher Down and Disciple, but this debut full-length release reveals that they have roots based in a harder, more aggressive sound. Rasping vocals and guitars that build a wall of noise come pummelling from the speakers; from the outset you are on the receiving end of a brutal onslaught. The overall feel of this album is not, however, incessant fury, and The Persuaded also bring a melodic edge to their hard sound similar to the likes of Memphis May Fire and For Today. Appearing most comfortable when producing abrasive riffs, "Forced Silence" is an impressive piece of melodic metalcore where clean and gritty vocals interplay nicely amongst changes in rhythm and intensity. At times, a lighter touch can be heard, as in the strings of "To My Brothers," but it is not long before the band return to the dynamic "Lost Souls" which has the feel of a Demon Hunter track. Production has been handled well by Dathon Conner (Spoken, Icon For Hire), providing a suitable platform that communicates a sense of energy and urgency that matches some uncompromising lyrics. There is one track that sits awkwardly amongst the others: the ballad "Heavy Heart," which seems a little lost amongst the anthemic metal on offer and exposes a few weaknesses in the clean vocals. Thankfully the song builds and finishes on a more driving, comfortable note. This 10-track offering on RockFest Records is one of the most promising debuts I have heard in a while, with its authentic, current metal and challenging message.

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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