THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA
The Act SOLID STATE
Metalcore veterans still seeking the pot at the end of the rainbow
Now seven albums deep, this Ohio band seem to be reinventing themselves again and, style-wise, this latest release is all over the shop. Swaying between dark, atmospheric and accessible stadium rock, it’s a bold experimental effort that’s admirable in its ambition, but the misses are stark. Yes, Numb and
Wave Of Youth are fierce and
The Thread is an anthemic, riff-laden standout, but
Chemical is so radio-friendly it seems lost in context. Meanwhile, the eclectic, industrial-tinged Isn’t It Strange? is a direct split between mesmerising and downright pretentious and jarring. Mike Hranica’s vocal evolution has been polarising to some, but you can’t knock his continued rawness and passion here. Emotive spoken word is a recurring theme amid the cleans and gritty screams, and fans of Being As An Ocean should find something to enjoy. ■■■■■■■■■■
FOR FANS OF: Like
Moths To Flames, Underoath, Vanna
NIK YOUNG