Review Summary: Big breakdowns, two-steps, and sick vocals. Chad Ruhlig, Ex-For the Fallen Dreams, fronts this Detroit based heavy hardcore band. Their first release "Valediction", was highly anticipated, and didn't fall short of what was expected.
Looking for heavy? Legend has plenty. Their first full length album, "Valediction" is a full on assault of breakdowns, two-steps, and chugs, backed up by great pissed off vocals. Yes, it is true that Legend sounds similar to Bury Your Dead, or The Acacia Strain. I've even heard it taken as far as "It sounds like The Acacia Strain had sex with Bury Your Dead", but that still isn't bad, I mean, that would be one damn fine music baby.
Legend only pushes the limits of hardcore further with "Valediction". Chad's vocals are perfectly matched with the tough, beefy instrumental sound that Legend has. Lyrics like "Pushing your way through everything, never backing up, never giving in. You fake mother***er, I'll call you out", ("In Sight), add an extra element of being pissed off. You can feel the emotion put into the music. As with any hardcore, gang vocals are usually incorporated. For some bands this is a make a brake moment, and can easily be over done. This aspect was grasped well, and was done tastefully. Throughout parts of the album a digital effect is used, which sounds tight as hell. One thing Legend can do is make a raw, nasty breakdown. These are found through out the entire CD.
Overall; sick album. I've found myself listening to this over and over again and not getting bored with the material.
