Review Summary: While ultimately doing nothing knew, Heroes For Hire prove that they are one of the best the genre has too offer in an overcrowded scene while improving on every aspect where they failed in the past
Australia has been a breeding ground of late for countless metal and hardcore bands with the likes of Parkway Drive, The Amity Affliction, and Deez Nuts, who have made their way across the ocean to America becoming very popular. However, over the last couple of years, the land down under has been producing a good number of pop-punk bands, one of those being the Sydney based five piece Heroes For Hire. Signed to Half Cut records, HFH have released two previous albums that were a huge success in Australia, with their sophomore record, Take One For The Team gaining international success that earned them a tour with The Pretty Reckless. No Apologies, produced by Steve Klein, further develops the band’s sound, which is best described as a mix between New Found Glory and I Call Fives.
Overall, No Apologies is a well-crafted, executed, and produced album that proves that Heroes For Hire know what they are doing. The driving force for the band is clearly vocalist Brad Smth and backup vocalist/guitarists Duane Hazel harmonizing vocals that are simply beautiful . The album also features guest vocals by Jeff Todd and Roger Lima of I Call Fives and Less Than Jake respectively. No Apologies picks up right where TOFTT left off. The volatile opening track “Rip Out My Guts” is a straightforward pop-punk anthem that sets up the rest of the album nicely. Vocalist Brad Smith does his best Jordan Pundik impression which works well over the soaring guitar. As the album progresses, we are introduced to more of the same, which is alright because of how catchy it is. Stand out track “Set In Stone” is the fastest track that Heroes have made with upbeat drumming and tapping guitar harmonies and lyrics filled with vulgarities that are sure to have kids moshing at their shows. The album never lets up with the exception of the acoustic ballad “Nowhere At All.” Another stand out track is “We’re Only Just Getting Started” which has gang vocals as well as some of the best backing vocals in the genre courtesy of guitarist Duane Hazel. For the most part, HFH trade angst filled lyrics for a more mature lyrical approach which shows that the band is willing to evolve lyrically as well as musically.
