War Of Ages – Fire From The Tomb

Much to my surprise a few days ago, I was just sitting at my computer, killing time when I received a package, much to my delight it was what I thought was a new War of Ages cd. But alas, it was not, it was a remake of their debut, which I had not heard, so it remains just as good. It felt like it’s been ages since I was last wrote about the follow up to this album. An album that I was quite fond of, it was one of several of a slew of releases that really pressed upon me that Facedown sure knows what they’re doing.

But to get back on track, although I may not be as into the more metal side of hardcore of late, these guys don’t fail to impress. In most of their press packages they like to bring up that they were on tour withTerror, The Warriors, All Shall Perish, and Stick To Your Guns. Out of the aforementioned, imagine a mix of All Shall Perish meets The Warriors with Terror’s breakdowns (that’s only instrumentally). Then add guitar solos and vocals that I’m surprised to say bare little resemblance to many other bands that I listen to.

I hate to say it, but I enjoyed the follow-up to this album much more than I did this. The music still might have the complex layering and generally sounds similar, but there are so many more breakdowns. It gets to the point where it almost entirely halts the progression of the song. I assume it would be interesting to see them play said songs at a show, where a crowd would most likely lose control and dance it up some. But I don’t think War of Ages has ever come through Edmonton (hint), so I lack seeing the effect of their music. Generally, that was my only qualm with this cd, too many breakdowns. I don’t think the lyrics were as blatantly Christian as Pride of the Wicked (the album that followed this one up), suffice to say, I’m still hesitant to read the lyrics. I’m sure I’m not the only one that isn’t going to finally see the so-called light of God by listening to a War of Ages song, but what do I know…

Overall, this a pretty decent album, although I would still encourage one to get Pride of the Wicked if come between the choice of the two. Facedown spared no expense at getting this album in every freaking music store on this continent (or so they seem to claim), so you can probably find it anywhere, provided you look. Chances are if you like this whole “modern hardcore infused with metal, lacking cute haircuts” thing, this band might just be for you.