Reviewed by Jon Wilson

This is an album strictly for those who like intense and heavy music. If you like Earth Crisis, Focused or Six Feet Deep then you should check Strongarm out. From start to finish the level of intensity doesn't let up one bit! However, this music is not lacking in depth or intelligence as the rhythm section is just amazing with its twists and turns! The whole band sound perfectly in sync with each other. Vocalist Chris Carbonell (who drummed on the first album) is about as extreme as you can get 90 per cent of the time. Of course there is the odd bit of talking as you would expect from any self respecting hardcore band. Lyrics are very interesting and challenging as they do require some thought and understanding. They often reflect a desire for purity and truth: "The price paid for living in light/Is that of gold in the crucible/Ever melting, straining, striving to be made pure" taken from "These Times That Try Men's Souls". Other tracks with equally cutting lyrics are "Supplication" and "More Bitter Than Death". Basically, this is intense and thoughtful new school hardcore from a very impressive band. Be prepared for the words to have an effect. Oh yeah, there's also a cool bonus track.

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.