Will to LiveKicking through the dust of the lonestar scene, Will To Live have garnered the respect from anyone that true embraces the spirit of hardcore. Most people were well aware of their brothers in Pride Kills but weren't introduced to the band that helped path the way for them and many others. Finally with some well deserved label backing, Will To Live comes forth with an album as intelligent as it is brutal. Tested and True displays the hardcore heart of bands like Hatebreed, Sick of it All, and Madball with the metal assault of bands like Sepultra and Slayer. From three note power chords, crushing breakdowns, to harsh dissonant metal riffing, Will To Live have something to appease fans of all underground music. Each of the seven songs on this EP stream roll down a path of insightful and meaningful topics. This isn't a band that is going to tell you how tough they are, or how much respect they deserve because they don't need to. A tough guy band without the posturing and cliche songs. And likely this time around the production matches the quality of the music, from the low end breakdowns to the scathing metal riffing everything sounds on point. Aesthetically the cover and layout is very reminiscent of the new Full Blown Chaos album. From the colors to the font. Only difference is this album sports a lion head whereas the FBC depicts a demon. This album should catapult Will To Live into the top tier of hardcore bands, the band has paid their dues and it's about time they get the respect they deserve.
Rating: 4/5
Thesis: The Lonestar kings will take their throne atop hardcore
Songs worthy of replay: Tested and True, True Hero