Reviewed by Greg Sammons

When their debut EP 'An Innocent Confession' hit our ears in 2006 it was clear we were hearing one of the most exciting bands in Britain. A kind of mid-career Zao meets Nodes Of Ranvier sound fronted by the UK's answer to As I Lay Dying's Tim Lambesis. It was enough to garner them European distribution, as well as numerous festival appearances across the Channel, and the attention of American label Holdfast Records - through whom 'The Stand' has been released. Once again we are met with deep and solid lyrics sung in a growl that one wouldn't expect from such a weedy lad but it's their music where it's really made leaps and bounds. This release still shows off all the things great about Through Solace, that hardcore speed, passion and intensity; but it's now been coupled with an added ability to incorporate melody and much more metallic edge. Plus the guitarwork has really come alive in the midst of their trademark crunchingly thick and chunky brutality. Of course the danger is that metalcore has long reached its popularity apex and people kind of see it as today's chip paper but these Welsh lads are clearly putting their own unique stamp on something that it's becoming increasingly hard to do so. This to me feels like the CD that bridges the gap between potential and reality, they've not quite reached their peak but by golly we're well past the point of being able to look back and enjoy the view.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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