Review by Rachel Jablonski
Stressed beyond belief, filled with enough anxiety to cause numerous panic attacks, I have found it difficult to focus the last few weeks. Intense emotions have been a rollercoaster of extremes disallowing the ability to concentrate for long. So over and over I have listened to the latest album, III: In the Eyes of Fire, by Boston, Massachusetts’ Unearth desperately trying to fight through outside distraction and bring to light the album through writing. Fleeting attempts have passed, the strain of external forces disallowing coherent thoughts. But, now that the fog has slightly lifted, I realize the extent to which the catchy metal sounds have soaked through into my subconscious.
Two songs in particular seem to have struck a chord in my temporal lobe. With swiftness, the opening track erupts in frantic drums and sharp guitars. Slowing in tempo at the chorus, the heavy guitar riff compels with catchiness accompanied by rhythmic screams by vocalist Trevor Phipps. LIFT ME UP, TEAR ME DOWN. WILL I LAST THROUGH THIS GLORIOUS NIGHTMARE? he questions and has challenged me to consider during my recent up and down struggles. The song starts the album with a bang and is consistent throughout with speed, heavy guitar work, hardcore vocals, and well placed breakdowns.
The other track which seems to have initiated reflection within me is the final song, all instrumental, called, “Big Bear and the Hour of Chaos.” The song is the least in your face track on the album effortlessly flowing with easy-going, comforting tempo. The addition of piano keys to the still crunchy electric guitars creates an appealing setting for intense and lulling contemplation.
Aimed to please hardcore metal fans, the album is consistent with electric riffs and memorable vocal rhythms. “Giles,” resembles the dynamic of “This Glorious Nightmare” with similar components both in instrumentation and vocal catchiness. RECTIFY MY NAME! “Sanctity of Brothers,” “This Time Was Mine,” and “So It Goes” continue the trend flaunting the work of guitarists Buz McGrath and Ken Susi.