Review Summary: A Voice Like Rhetoric show nothing but absolute maturity in a spectacular debut.
At the Drive-In has been a huge influence on countless modern bands. Their sound is a formidable force that has left a lasting impression on music. A Voice Like Rhetoric, from North Western Pennsylvania, are quite similar in sound to At the Drive-In. They show a similar vibe to their music. The same power and ferocity is present, and spectacular musicianship is thrown on top of that. A Voice Like Rhetoric are a mathier version of At the Drive-In, simply put.
Ethos shows the image of a band that sound like they’ve been making music for a long time, and provides a new, fresh sound for those looking for a fantastic post-hardcore record.
The record is produced fantastically. The drums, guitar, and bass are all audible and pleasant to the ear, and the vocals are spot on. The vocals are atypical of post-hardcore for the most part, but they do not hinder the record in any way. Honestly,
Ethos would still be great even without the vocals. The songwriting and instrumentation are what make this record shine, and it shines brightly.
The guitar work provided by the two guitarists is nothing short of phenomenal. It seems like there isn’t a second where there isn’t an interesting guitar fill or bass line. There’s always something going on, but it doesn’t tire the listener. The countless flurries and sprinkles of guitar virtuosity throughout
Ethos is both surprising, and refreshing. The math-rock influence to their music is very fitting, and a pleasure to hear. They use the complex rhythms found in math-rock, and add more melody and catchiness to make their sound one of a kind.
Ethos is, quite frankly, one of the best debuts of any artist I’ve heard for a very long time. It is unfortunate that the band has gone, for the most part, overlooked by many people that would most likely enjoy their music. One can only imagine where A Voice Like Rhetoric can go from this great effort, seeing as most bands don’t come close to achieving the greatness that
Ethos is in their entire existence. If you have a second, just head over to their myspace and listen to a track or two. I doubt you’ll be anything less than impressed.
