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9 out of 10
Sometimes you know when a hardcore record is going to be a bit special before you even put it in the player. This is one of those times. There are no clichéd mosh photos here, nor are there any moody band poses or clichéd Photoshop compositions. The grainy black and white portraits that make up the (recycled!) packaging are more reminiscent of Johnny Cash's American series of recordings than a typical hardcore band. Press play and (although the Cash comparisons mostly melt away) the good impressions remain.
If you took a list of hardcore bands that break the mould in one way or another you'd probably have a pretty good list of comparisons and influences for Defeater. Think a mix of the best parts of Shai Hulud, Boy Sets Fire, Give up the Ghost and Botch and you won't be far wrong. Right away you know this is powerful stuff, the production lets the intricacies of the guitar work shine through without losing any of the power or depth, and the main vocals whilst mostly screamed are rarely distorted and as such are more or less decipherable - or at least bear some resemblance to the lyrics printed in the inlay. The lyrics are another standout, with some definite Give up the Ghost similarities, rising head and shoulders above most hardcore cliché nonsense.
This is the first hardcore album in quite a while I've really liked, and as such I can highly recommend it. Here's hoping they tour soon.
Listen: www.myspace.com/defeater
Tracklist:
1. Blessed Burden
2. Everything Went Quiet
3. Nameless Streets
4. Forgiver Forgetter
5. City by Dawn
6. Prophet in Plain Clothes
7. Carrying Weight
8. Moon Shine
9. The Blues
10. Debts
11. Cowardice
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