Signs of HopeLeading up to writing this review I revisited the band's previous release, their full length "First and Foremost" and enjoyed what I heard. Then I went back and read the review I had written for that album and I was like what the fuck was I thinking!? While I still agree with my initial assessment of the album being by the books 88' youth crew, it was worthy of more credit than I was giving it, especially after listening to a lot of the hardcore coming out in the same vein since then. Eh, such is the life of reviewer, sometimes you need to a let a band or album grow on you and many times you end up enjoying a CD a lot more after you cast your judgement in a review. Well I have had plenty of time to let this one sink in that's for sure.
On the aforementioned album Signs of Hope played the 88' youth crew sound with posi lyrics and a little extra metallic umph now and again. On this five song EP the band has changed their sound a bit. They have added a lot more melody into their song writing but not like MLIW, more like Champion. They have also incorporated more of those metallic umph moments. I would also say that the vocals have improved from the last recording; he has better vocal patterns and his tone of voice is markedly different from "Fire and Foremost."
One thing that has not changed is the band's positive lyrics. And for whatever reason they are resonating better with me this time around. The song "Break Out" is familiar lyrical ground but lines like "Don't you dare say to me "I never had a chance" "It's always out of reach "Forget my dreams" THIS IS OUR TIME TO FEEL ALIVE. And live each day like the last of life" always gets me hype.
The dawn lit skylight on the front cover works and it certainly fits the slight change of sound by these guys. The one thing about the layout that surprised me was the lack of not only thank you's but band member names and credits and it's a good thing. It's a bit of remainder that it is more about the music than the people creating it. Oh, and the tray picture of the group and the crowd engaged in some gang vocals looks good with the pencil shade effect.
Rating: 3.6/5
Songs Worthy of Replay: "Break Out" & "Breaking Barriers"
Synopsis: Very good melodic youth crew styled hardcore with ultra positive lyrics, and some nice mid paced breakdowns for good measure. Nothing new, but what the fuck is new these days anyway? It is well done and that's what matters.
As I always say, check out the band and decide for yourself. I am but one individual with his own tastes and preferences that are probably much different than yours. With that said, check out these links:
Signs of Hope MySpace
Detonate Records
"Another Song" (From "First and Foremost")