Review Summary: Heart In Hand produces a fantastic debut album that most hardcore bands wish they could.
Heart In Hand is a relatively unknown band hailing from the UK. They combine elements of throat-grabbing hardcore, and amazing melody, all wrapped in one great package. With one EP and one LP to their name, Heart In Hand are a force to be reckoned with.
Heart In Hand is:
Charlie Holmes - Vocals
Ollie Wilson - Guitar
Ed Hartwell- Guitar
Carl Martin- Bass
*The drummer when recording "Only Memories" quit the band, so we won't add him at this time.
"Only Memories" is a 10-track, hardcore, absolutely fantastic work of art. On this awesome debut album, you'll find some of the catchiest breakdowns and the most beautiful melodies to be found in the 2011 year so far. Charlie Holmes's vocals command your attention, and he executes so perfectly throughout every song. Ollie Wilson and Ed Hartwell take turns showing off their writing abilities, with melodies that you can't help but bob your head to. It's clear they work as cohesive as a band can when it comes to writing.
As far as production goes, I'd have to say it's almost top-notch for a debut. The vocals (naturally) stand out just a slight bit above everything else, which in my eyes is a great way to produce an album. The guitars are crisp and clean - however, the bass is only audible throughout certain sections of the album. But then again, when was bass ever really heard in this genre?
The standout tracks on this album are "Only Memories", "Tunnels", and "I'm Coming Home". The entire album will raise the hairs on your neck, but the three aforementioned tracks are masterful in every way. It really is rare for a hardcore-influenced album to turn out so well.
I recommend this album to ANYONE who likes hardcore influences on album - you will not be disappointed a bit. This is one of the most fluid and cohesive albums to come out so far this year, and I have no lack of confidence when I say this.
