Reviewed by Ian Webber

After a short intro that consists of a spoken passage over industrial noises, the listener is launched straight into a metalcore opener that sets out where this six-piece outfit from Cincinnati, Ohio are coming from. Having said that though, they are not content to produce just a solid wall of noise. On their debut with Bombworks Records I Am The Messenger mix clean vocals that sound stripped from a melodic emo outfit with solid riffing and lumbering deathcore. The overall sound lurches from one genre to another but does not jar, sometimes making for an intriguing listen. The emo sections are well crafted with some nice harmonies, teenage friendly melodies and speed drumming. These are then interspersed with slowed down, brutal, thumping riffs and deep growling. Andy Atkins from A Plea For Purging guests and adds a little more depth in places. Having said that, I am still left with the feeling that this is all standard stuff. The tracks, "Br007@L Poodl3" and "Bipolar Bear" are two examples that stand out above the rest, displaying the full range of what this group has to offer. I Am The Messenger have produced a sound album and fans of For Today or the early Underoath may want to seek this one out.

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.

Interested in reviewing music? Find out more here.