It Prevails- The Inspiration (8/10)

Rise Records
2007

Tracklisting:

1. Explanation: Content
2. The Distance
3. Change Today
4. Thirst For A Better End
5. My Life Back
6. To Fail...
7. An Anomaly
8. Man.Moment.Machine.
9. At Least Understand
10. The Inspiration

I read a review of this cd that said something like, "easily the best release to come out on Rise Records in the last four years." Well, agreed. This disc absolutely rules, and it's great to know that there are still bands coming out in the world and making music as beautiful and authentic as this.

It Prevails is a melodic hardcore outfit that sites Shai Hulud as one of their biggest influences, and you can definitely hear it on this record (which I have absolutely no problem with that). The music is hard hitting but absolutely gorgeous, kicking off with a slow tempo drum intro and just absolutely crushing. Very open progressions with driving drums and melodic post hardcore leads, some very big breakdowns, and just absolutely heart wrenching vocals. I really can't say enough how impressed I am with this band, and secondly, how impressed I am that Rise put this out. Maybe someone over there actually has some decent taste.

The songs are pretty much similar throughout the record, not alot of high and low points, minus the two instrumentals, until "At Least Understand," which surprised me with an awesome clean singing part. Sort of in the vein of Aaron Gillespie's work with Underoath, which noone can say is original, but regardless makes a high point on the record as far as I'm concerned.

Production wise, this record is prestine. Nothing special, but no complaints here. I mean, it's not like I expected anything different from Rise anyway, but one thing that's pretty cool is there are no keyboards, and none of the tell-tale signs of a Foundation Recording on this record. Guitars are very nicely blended, which is so important on a record of this kind, drums are massive, and the vocals are comfortably out-front but not overbearing. I'd say these guys got hooked up, as far as I'm concerned.

I highly recommend this record. It breathes good feelings and positivity, and GO SEE THEM LIVE! An absolutely amazing live show.

For Fans Of: Shai Hulud, Hopesfall (Old Old), Anam Cara