Review Summary: "Witness" doesn't break any new ground, but is a solid release from a 2 year hiatus. It has something for everyone.
Blessthefall's sophomore release of "Witness" doesn't break any barriers, but it's certaintly a "2.0" version of the band.
Blessthefall as a band isn't a stranger to anyone in the Screamo/Hardcore genre. After the departure of Craig Mabbitt, I wasn't expecting much from the band other than a certain failure. But with Beau Bokan as the new frontman, this album is definitely a step up from "His Last Walk" in almost every aspect.
Generally, the album is fast-paced. You won't find a lot of downtime on this album, if you were expecting the same format as their first release. Guitarists Mike Frisby and Eric Lambert won't win any awards for their guitar work, but they do a very nice job of creating clean, formatted guitars. They have improved vastly in their musicianship, and with just cause. This CD has been a year in the making, and Blessthefall has been on multiple national tours promoting Beau Bokan and the long-awaited release of "Witness"
Being a Blessthefall fan for many years, this was at the top of my list of CD's to get for the 2009 year. It doesn't disappoint. Beau's vocals mesh very well with the guitars and drums on the CD. Bassist Jared Warth does all of the screams on this album, as opposed to His Last Walk where Craig screamed quite a bit. I unfortunately have to find that a downside on this album, as that's what made Craig unique. But Beau's voice in a sense is heavenly, so listeners won't have too much to complain about.
"2.0" is the first song on the album, and it's about as explosive as can be. Obviously, the lyrics "Dead, we're not dead. We're not like you said" are about how Blessthefall is essentially a whole new "version" of the old Blessthefall. Witness definitely shows the progressive maturity the band has acquired, both lyrically and musically.
Unfortunately, the breakdowns are all very similar. If you listen to the album front to back and try to place the breakdowns with the song, you'll have a tough time. They are very generic, but are placed well within the songs that will often surprise the listener. "Five Ninety" includes a breakdown that will probably leave you with the same opinion.
"Hey Baby, Here's That Song You Wanted" has to be my album favorite. It's so dynamic, the band knows how to work well together, it comes out in their music.
Whether you're a fan of them or not, everyone will find at least one song they find enjoyable on "Witness" Overall, the album is fairly relentless, and has a pretty good listening value. The album is not perfect by any means, and doesn't break any new ground. But the album will definitely garner new fans and is a must-have for any BTF fan.
Recommended Songs:
2.0
Hey Baby, Here's That Song You Wanted
Witness
Five Ninety
Skinwalkers
