Review Summary: Chiodos, a relatively new band on the hardcore scene, is able to provide an remarkable combination of metal-like riffs, soft piano melodies, and face-melting lyrics in order to create a masterpiece of a CD: Alls Well That Ends Well.
At this moment, you may be inquiring as to why this CD has been labeled “Classic”. Is “Classic” not a title only to be awarded to the most inspiring and profound albums ever to grace the face of our planet? As I sit here at my desk, I myself question the rating I have just bestowed upon Chiodos’s 2005 release, All’s Well That Ends Well. However, a quick tap of the play button on my itunes instantly shatters any doubts concerning the rating of this album.
It is clear, when listening to AWTEW, that you are in the presence of greatness. The opening intro, a short piano piece, lulls you into a sense of piece. At the end of those 50 seconds, you are suddenly void of any peace; thrust into the fast-paced, melodic, opening riff to All Nereids Beware. The song builds, and suddenly you are enthralled in the world that is Chiodos. Around you the music is spun, like a clever trap. While the piano, bass, and rhythm guitar all lay the foundations of your basic song, the heavily overdriven guitar creates a technical web of masterful riffing. A series of deep, thick drum riffs are layered under the previously described melody. All the while, a high-pitched, voice is heard wailing poetic lyrics; accompanied by cleverly placed screams. When the song comes to an end, you simply yearn for more.
Many aspects of AWTEW ensure that no other band comes close to matching Chidos’s original sound. Unlike most bands in today’s modern world of music, the piano/keyboard is an essential gear in Chiodos machine. Where other bands featuring a steady stream of keys may be considered “cheesy”, Chiodos is able to weave the keyboard into their sound effortlessly. The constant movement present in most of AWTEW’s guitar riffs helps keep the songs fresh and upbeat without letting the songs mesh together. The unpredictable vocals also keep the listener on his/her toes throughout the album- unable to predict what may occur next. When listening to this album, it is virtually impossible to find one specific flaw; all the instruments seem to be played to perfection.
Unknown to many, “All’s Well That Ends Well” is a title that this sophomore Chiodos album shares with a play written by non other than William Shakespeare. In a way, AWTEW has more in common with a Shakespeare play than just the title. Both the album and the play are indisputably masterpieces. Like the play, however, the album is not appreciated by all who listen to it. But enjoy it or not, AWTEW is a piece of art worthy of recognition regardless of musical taste.
Recommended Tracks
All Nereids Beware
Baby, You Wouldn’t Last One Minute On the Creek
There’s No Penguins in Alaska
We’re Gonna Have Us A Champagne Jam
