Metalcore is one of the most popular alternative music genres nowadays, with thousands upon thousands of bands attempting to sound ‘edgy’. It is easy to get sick of the genre really quickly, but there is occasionally a new album which comes out and proves that the genre is still going strong. That album would be To Those Left Behind (Fearless) by Blessthefall. Seriously.

Opening track ‘Decayer’ is powerful, brutal and energetic from the get-go. Although Blessthefall’s previous albums were enjoyable to listen to, there is something different about ‘To Those Left Behind’: it is easy to hear how much their sound has progressed in just a short space of time. Their sound is not only heavier, but it also sounds much more passionate.

‘Up In Flames’ was the first single to be released from the new album and it still remains one of the most exciting songs. The fusion of melodic vocals, harsh screams and heavy riffs stays true to the original Blessthefall style whilst still managing to sound fresh.  Frontman Beau Bokan has stated that they do not want to be classed as a Christian metal band, but their lyrics could be seen to be of a religious theme: “Don’t drag me through your nightmare; don’t tear apart what I am. You’ve got your demons, they parallel mine. You’re not the victim, you’re my parasite.”

When a band releases a new album it is easy to say that it is either their best or worst album to date, however, Blessthefall have truly created an album to be proud of. The harsh vocals are some of the best that they have ever done and it is safe to say that Blessthefall are at the top of their game right now.

7.5/10

JULIA CONOPO