RELENTLESS AND EXPANSIVE THIRD ALBUM
Posted August 18, 2009
By CCMmagazine,
Every knob is fully cranked on Constellations, the latest from August Burns Red. The blistering guitar solos and frenetic percussion found on 2007’s eventual hit Messengers remains, yet the Pennsylvania act seems intent on taking things to the next level. And for fans of the metalcore quintet, that’s great news.
The growls are deeper. The guitars ascend and descend higher and lower than ever. Melodies give way to intense screams and then take hold again. In other words, Constellations’ dynamism sets it apart not only from ABR’s previous offerings but from other like-minded releases. Producer Jason Suecof (All That Remains, Trivium) continues to showcase his ability to deftly mix intense elements into one cohesive mix, especially on more epic tracks like “Paradox.” Jake Luhrs’ growls and Matt Greiner’s drum work are in fine form, riffs rising and falling like thrill rides at a theme park.
Other tracks like “Oceans of Apathy” and “Crusades” continue the onslaught; the latter’s riffs are particularly impressive, closing Constellations with a near inhuman burst of energy. After selling 80,000-plus units of Messengers and impressive tour spots with As I Lay Dying and All That Remains, in addition to their own headlining dates, Constellations should emerge as one of the more promising metal releases of the year. —Matt Conner View All Music And Book Reviews By CCMmagazine | View CCMmagazine's Profile
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