Review Summary: Well, it's on par with the last two albums. So how much did you like those?
"Blessthefall" was one of the first post-hardcore bands I ever heard. So it seems that no matter how unoriginal their albums have been, I have a soft spot for them. Maybe that soft spot has gone away or maybe this album just isn't that great. I'm fairly certain it's the later.
If you are looking for something new and innovative out of this record, don't even bother. Throughout this entire record, Hollow Bodies sticks to the generic post-hardcore formula. You'll hear plenty of breakdowns, average choruses, and other filler; but what more did you expect? Their past albums have been the same basic thing. Blessthefall really just failed to mature at all on this record. I'm not sure who the lyricist is, but he comes across as quite childish on some of these songs. Lyrics such as "You're just a bitch." and "You're just a ***ing disgrace." hold about as much shock value as a nine volt battery.
I guess I can't hate everything about "Hollow Bodies." This album does have a few good things sprinkled throughout it. The guitarists sometimes shine through the mix with some pretty good lead parts. Although they are few and far between, they're used well. The harsh vocals are above average. I know that most people won't agree with that statement, but I like the raw screams that Jared Warth has. And even the breakdowns are bearable at times (see "Youngbloods").
Right when you start to enjoy some of the songs something always happens. What is that you may ask? Beau Bokan. He might be the biggest thing holding this album back. His vocals are bland and void of emotion. His range is very limited as well. I honestly don't think he ever sings above or below the staff. His ballad track on the album "Buried in These Walls" is cringe-worthy.
If you like generic post-hardcore, knock yourself out; you'll have a blast with this album. However, those who are looking for something that doesn’t feel like it was rushed to this rather bland end result, will be lulled to sleep during this record. The songs have very little replay value and the lyrics are uninspired. They did a good job of doing what they know, i'll give them that. But nothing ventured, nothing gained. "Blessthefall" definitely didn't gain anything on "Hollow Bodies."
Pros:
Guest vocal spots.
Some pretty good guitar parts.
Jared Warth
Cons:
Beau Bokan
Generic song structures.
Overuse of breakdowns.
