Reviewed by Ben Hurrell

War Of Ages arrived on the scene in 2005 with a self-titled debut carrying a distinctive brand of hardcore. Mixing the style of mainstream hardcore acts such as Hatebreed and Madball with a guitar sound more often found in thrash the band quickly gained a large following. This, the band's second album, picks up where the debut finishes: bold lyrics, big riffs and even bigger breakdowns. The most distinctive part of War Of Ages' sound is the guitars: harmonized riffs and frantic solos are a rare commodity in this type of hardcore but the band mixes the styles seamlessly. Album highlights include the slightly irregular "Fall Of Pride" which switches back and forwards between thrash riffs and hardcore breakdowns, and the driving epic "Rise From The Ashes". The lyrics mostly deal with the struggles of life and dependence on God for strength, and the record appropriately closes with the encouraging call to arms, "Stone By Stone". While the band's debut was strong, War Of Ages has proved here that they can compete with bands of the highest level and this CD should have a home in the collection of every fan of the genre.

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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