JAIRUS
"The Need To Change Mapmaker" CD DIGIPACK - SKIPW007

It was apparent to those who witnessed Jairus at their early shows that something very special was brewing; it seemed every time they took to the stage they were more intense than the last. This, their debut full length and first release on Skipworth Records comes as a much-anticipated arrival. Recorded at the City Of Dis by producer de rigueur (and Guillaume Seam front man) Ben Phillips, Mapmaker kicks off with the superb 'Lucco Sleeps On Screen', swirling synths and angular guitar stabs create a tense intro before the song really kicks off. The rest of the album refuses to let go. Particularly worth noting are the re-recorded 'Spindley', 'Sidewalk Dances' (on which Secondsmile vocalist Olly Goodland guests) and the masterfully structured album closer 'Ara Pacis'. Jairus even delve into post-rock noodling with 'Our Modern Red Selfless' and 'Abandons The Exterior Look'. Perhaps what defines this work from their previous demos is the ever more apparent departure from the metal core element of their sound. Guitars have had their distortion knocked down a notch and synths now lace many of the tracks.

With this willingness to evermore experiment, they continue to evolve and where Jairus will go next is anyone's guess. One thing's for sure though. A very welcome offering that certainly doesn't disappoint.
9/10
Credits Sammy Nikdel DefiantConviction.co.uk

ALBUM OF THE MONTH
'For once the cliche is true, this is music with passion but if you need further prove give your ears a dose of the mesmerizing And Caligula Blushed - a truly astonishing peice of work.

This Kent quintet exploded onto the UKHC scene from out of nowhere and this, their debut album, has pushed the boundaries of emotional hardcore so far out that it is going to be fucking hard for anyone to reach them. To say The Need To Change The Mapmaker is an astonishing peice of work would qualify for understatement of the year. From start to finish this is one of the most beautiful and challenging peices of work to emerge from any scene.
Breathtaking in its quality, The Need To Change The Mapmaker is a record that will challenge the listener on every level. Much like bands such as Tool and At The Drive-In push/pushed the boundaries of their respective genres, Jairus do the same with their chaotic, thought-provoking and utterly passion-driven sound. Their record label describes this as straight from the heart and they couldn't be more right. For once the cliche is true, this is music with passion but if you need further prove give your ears a dose of the mesmerizing And Caligula Blushed - a truly astonishing peice of work.

Jairus have been likened to many bands including the aforementioned Tool and At The Drive-In while the fact that they've shared stages with the likes of Walls Of Jericho and Hopesfall should give you an indication of the chaos on offer. Quite honestly, this is the most beautiful, unnerving record I've heard in a long time. Simply stunning.
Recommended Track: And Caligula Blushed
Credits Planet-Loud.com

Although I lost contact to Skippy a little bit due to me having too much trouble around my head over the past months, himself and Skipworth will always be something I would count on. Not releasing too many records, but more keeping an eye on quality, he delivers us now the first full length from Jairus, which some of you may already know. This UK 5 piece already turned some heads before, and will turn the rest of the heads with this release for sure. These 10 songs are full of innovation, emotion and power, unlike many things you heard before, but easy to get into nonetheless. While Jairus really put a lot of different things into their music this time, the whole cocktail really sounds very harmonic, with which these guys show their talent in songwriting as well as in performing. You got vast musical passages and even instrumentals, sometimes calmed down and quietly rocking, with rather complicated structures on the one hand, that keep your interest. This is where Jairus shine with an awesome rhythm section, bringing these fragile moments ("Our Modern Red, Selfless" and "Abandons The Exterior Look") with so much power that you simply must love them. Furthermore, the singing voice of the mostly screaming frontman is fitting very well into this. To come to the other hand, I would mention the screaming, offensive side of Jairus. Although they keep a rocking background most of the time, there is really enough power and aggression to show their HC roots and to be filed under that genre. They keep a melodic guitar most of the time, which even supports the furious moments.

Furthermore, this record is intensively detailed, with many moments you really need to keep an ear on. Atmosphere is really well created through so many details. The middle 2nd half of "Spindley" shows you what I mean here, with it’s general songstructure slowly being calmed down until it’s faded out.

This is hardcore as it should be, played with your heart and your body, being more sincere, positive and inspiring than most bands who claim to carry that spirit, but bring the same music since 1988. I hate to quote OneSheets, but the Hopesfall comparism works quite good here, as both bands have a focus on harmonic, yet driving songs as well as on complexity and fragility, and I would have dropped this name anyway. Other names may be The Spirit That Guides Us or even Kneejerk, if anyone remembers, plus some Swedish innovation. If you don’t, add some Poison the Well. Really a great, inspiring record that will keep you entertained for hours. Great artwork, great production, great record.
Credits Poisonfree.com

ALBUM OF THE MONTH 4 1/2 STARS
Ever since we received their very first two-track demo two years ago (and it’s still way better than pretty much everything else out there), Fury has been touting Jairus as the saviour of heavy emotional music. Their debut album, “The Need To Change The Mapmaker”, surpasses our ridiculously high expectations with awe-inspiring ease and jagged style.

The album begins with a restrained burst of pent-up rage, lowering you in slowly, then grabs you by the throat – opener ‘Lucco Sleeps On Screen’ kicks in with groove-laden angular post-hardcore glory. Songs like this, ‘Sidewalk Dances’ and ‘Wilomina…’ really show Jairus coming into their own, showing an amazing degree of maturity and originality for a debut album. The aforementioned ‘Sidewalk Dances’ even contains a superb contribution from Olly Goodland (ex-Secondsmile) and his ferocious vocal chords.

‘And Caligula Blushed’, ‘Spindley’ and ‘Street Lights Point The Way’ feature from previous efforts in re-recorded splendour and the other tracks all take Jairus’ formula - think Hopesfall, Botch and Thursday – to the very limits, throwing in well placed influences, such as Mogwai, The Mars Volta and Refused, only usually seen in completely different genres. The band have really stretched themselves to create the most passionate, raw and innovative album they possibly could – the result is the most significant album to hit the post-hardcore scene in years. Hopefully ‘The Need To Change The Mapmaker’ will rise through the flooded market of soulless crap and make the imprint it truly deserves to make.

In conclusion – it’s even better than we’d hoped.
Credits Furyfanzine.com

It's been a while since the last Skipworth Records release (the Deluge / Fordirelifesake split cd) but right now they are back at the front with another brilliant release.

When you listen to Jairus' debut album "The Need To Change The Mapmaker" you'll be very surprised to hear that they have only been around for about two and a half years. That's how mature this album sounds. Since their beginning at the end of 2001 they have released three demos but mainly gained recognition for their outstanding live performances. Which I myself have never witnessed so I can't really get into that. But by listening to this album I can imagine they put on some energetic show, the ten songs sound straight from the heart.
Musically I would describe them as a mixture between the metallic style of bands like Hopesfall and Poison The Well and the complex song writing of bands like Tool and At The Drive In. Add to this that dreadfull, kinda sad feeling that comes along with the music of Joy Division and The Smiths and you'll get Jairus.

From the first tones of "Lucco Sleeps On Screen" I am surprised by the intensity of Jairus. When track five ("Our Modern Red, Selfless"- a very touching interlude) kicks in you'll be amazed by the diversity and technicality of this band. By the time the last song "Ara Pacis" finishes you have been on a journey through various mindstates. Sadness, anger and despair are just some of the emotions fired at you.

Production wise this album also stands the battle with current high standards. The guitars are sharp but also brutal, the melody lines can be heard very clearly. The vocals are mixed in just right. Only downside at times is the drum sound. On some of the tracks the kick drum sounds a bit out of place, a bit mechanic as opposed to the emotional guitar work. And during some of the more brutal parts it's kinda hard to hear the hi-hat. But really, these are just minor notes on an oustanding debut album.

"The Need To Change The Mapmaker" comes in a beautifull digipack with artwork that definitely fits the music.

Skipworth Records once again managed to add another amazing band to their roster. And Jairus managed to keep up that high standard that bands like Deluge and Fordirelifesake have set for this label. Definitely a winning release for both parties. Highly recommended.
Credits Wmtd-zine.com

An amazing, overwhelming listening experience... Jairus is THE new U.K. band to watch out for, and any fan of Hopesfall, From Autumn To Ashes, Thursday and At The Drive In should definitely check this out!
New JAIRUS album! "The Need To Change The Mapmaker" is a MUST for any fan of Hopesfall, Poison The Well, Underoath, Deftones...
Credits Goodlife Recordings

Kent born and bred, Jairus have spent the last two years on the toilet circuit playing anywhere and everywhere (including a trek around Estonia); the mission to hone and refine their craft until boiling point. Well, the metaphorical egg timers must surely be a’ ringing now, cos Jairus’ debut full length ‘The Need To Change The Mapmaker’ is one of the most individual and developed offerings from a UK based hardcore act you’re ever likely to hear. Though clearly influenced by such contemporary stateside acts as Poison The Well and the sublime Hopesfall, the Kent quintet have evolved beyond their inspirations, incorporating huge washes of atmospheric electronica and jagged discordance into their stylings; the effect an engulfing soundscape of emotion and texture that positively belies their youth. Blessed with a production that eases up on full belt distortion and allows all subtleties to the forefront, ‘The Need To Change The Mapmaker’ is at times gloriously awkward, challenging the listener to take notice and get involved every inch of the way. Though still very much connected to their hardcore roots Jairus are thrillingly unafraid of diversity, and it’s for this reason that this mighty strong debut album will appeal to fans of Mogwai and Cursive as much as it will to fans of JR Ewing or Botch. This is the sound of serious contenders, let it thrill you. 8.5/10.
Credits Leander Gloversmith Terrorizer Magazine UK April 2004

The Need to Change the Mapmaker is Jairus first full length album. It’s been two and a half years since this emocore band from the U.K. started off. They spent a long time making sure that their songs would sound perfect when they would hit the stage. After half a year they played their first live show in Folkstone. Since then, they played lots of shows as well in their home country as in other European countries. They already played with well known bands like Hopesfall, Shai Hulud and Walls of Jericho.

When I saw the artwork on the cd-cover and read the songtitles, it reminded me of the band Poison the Well. After hearing the first track on the album, Lucco Sleeps on Screen, it was clear that Poison the Well is one of their biggest influences. Other bands you could refer it to are bands like Hopesfall and Coheed and Cambria.

The music’s got typical fast hardcore riffs, but there are also slow emotional parts. The energetic And Caligula Blushed is followed up by the very slow Abandons the Exterior Look, which results in a great variety of songs on this record. They also have lots of variety in their vocals. Screams are followed up by spoken words and sung vocals.

So if you like bands like Hopesfall and Poison the Well, make sure you check out The Need to Change the Mapmaker! 4 stars
Credits Pitfher.com

Nu tad ko? Kadam varbut ilgi, kadam varbut kopš Valmieras pasakuma ilgi gaiditais Jairus albums beidzot ir klat, nu tad jakeras versim pie ragiem :)! Sakšu ar to ka, ka jau es biju gaidijis Jairus ietures sava stila muziku, tas ari notikas, albums ir loti lidzigs tam 6 dziesmam, kuras vini paši sauc par demo dziesmam, gitarrifu zina(es domaju, ka daudzi, kuri šo aprakstu lasis bus dzirdejuši, nu vismaz 3 dziesmas, vispieejamakas interneta). Jairus klausitaju ausis noteikti var parsteigt ar savu profesionalo gitarau/basa/bungu speli, skana, kura maigi ieplust katra klausitaja ausi noteikti iesedisies ari Jusu pratos, šad un tad liks par Jairus atcereties ejot kautvai pa ielu. Pirms albuma ieklušanas manas ausis es padzirdeju vienu dziesmu, kas bija pieejama interneta, proti - Ara Pacis, izklausijas jau nu samera smaga un tiešam atgadinaja melodisko metalinu ar spiedzošo vokalu, tadel biju gatavojies no visa albuma sanemt ko lidzigu, tieši no tam jaunajam dziesmam, bet ne, parsvara tieši jaunas dziesmas balstas uz emo elementiem, kas mana ausi pedeja laika ne parak labi plust iekša. Kapec nav DAUDZ metala, kas savienojas ar melodiju? :( Butu jau labak, bet nekas, albums ir uztaisits godam, forša skana, o, aizmirsu, vokals ir diezgan pakluss, man labak atkal patik kad mazliet pa virsu instrumentiem iet ;) Albumam es lieku 5 no 5 ballem, neskatoties uz to ka man šis un tas tomer neapmierina...
P.S. ja salidzina ar citam grupam spelejošam ko lidzigu, tad noteikti varu minet AlexisOnFire.
Credits Alternative.lv Latvia View Website

Bare et kig på coveret, fik mine forventninger og nysgerrighed helt op og vende. Farverne er varme, og ideen med et kort "smeltet" ind i en bilrude kunne jo ikke være mere passende til den overfladiske tolkning af titlen. Næste skridt var at åbne låget til sagens kerne, og her bliver man vidne til et udpluk af den engelske natur bestående af bakke- og skovområder med en vej igennem. Og til sidst en tilpas tidløs himmel. Svært ikke at blive lidt begejstret for den noget alternative indpakning, sikkert ikke nyskabende, men det passer godt til et band som Jairus.
For selvom deres musik kan være meget aggressiv, formår de alligevel at gøre omgivelserne omkring dem, meget beroligende.
Der lægges ud med numret Lucco Sleeps On Screen. En god åbner, der med kombinationen af de aggressive stykke, der mest skyldes forsanger Adam Bray’s skrigende stemme og de stille uhæmmede melodiske passager, danner en fin varierende struktur. Og denne går da også næsten igennem alle albummets numre, uden at der på noget tidspunkt er tale om trivialitet. For hvert nummer, fremstår mere eller mindre selvstændigt, uden dog at vige fra den overhængende generelle lyd. Største outsider er utvivlsomt numret Our Modern Red, Selfless hvor der her eksperimenteres med svævende elektroniske lyde samt lidt klaverspil, alene fremstår det nummer lidt ligegyldigt. Men sæt det sammen med næste nummer Abandons The Exterior Look, der er en stille sang, uden helt at blive en ballade. Så har du 10 minutters kræsen eller hvile, om man vil, for øregangene. At de så har valgt at ligge disse 2 numre midt på pladen, er noget af en satsning, især hvis man ikke formår at hive den hjem med de resterende numre, da det tager lidt på albummets brus.
De får hivet den hjem. Og det også med tanken om at man forinden, foruden åbneren, har lagt øre til andre nævneværdige numre som And Caligula Blushed og Cut The Six Minute Caller, der begge udmærker sig ved at være meget iørefaldende, der bliver virkelig leflet for melodierne her. Det samme gældende albummets resterende numre. Willomina-Theodoseus-Hangs med sin glade fremtoning, Spindley med den fadende udmunding i spoken-words og sørgmodig melodi. Og til sidst Ara Pacis som pladens klart mest metalliske nummer, hvilket også bliver håndteret fint. Og ligeledes i løbet af albummet, hvor der dukker nogle breakdowns af mildere form op her og der.
En bemærkelsværdig debut, fra et særdeles lovende band. Der trækkes lidt på inspirationer fra bands som Hopesfall og Poison The Well, så tilhængere af disse bands, burde helt sikkert tjekke Jairus ud. Og ellers generelt bare folk med lysten til passioneret hardcore, med et metallisk twist.
Så hvis jeg skal svare på det spørgsmål, jeg stillede mig selv i starten, må det være et ja !
5/6 stars.
Credits FranticSound.dk Denmark View Website

Well yours truly has got a copy of this CD a full month and a half before its release date in the shops.
This is a genius record. I have closely followed this band since there first show in a tiny local club and it’s since then I have loved there music and the passion behind it. Deemed as a hardcore band by most people coming across them, this record shows that Jairus are much more than this. A rollercoaster ride of emotions is what this record stands for. With flat out hardcore riffs a lá “Ara Pacis” the album’s closing track, to experimental electronica in the shape of “Our Modern Red, Selfless” and almost ballad like songs, such as “Abandons The Exterior Look”.
The sheer musicianship of this record makes your mouth drop open and makes you believe that you will never enjoy a piece of music in 4/4 again. The drumming is amongst the most original I have ever heard, with every beat cutting through you from a different angle.
The critisms of the disc are that when you put the disc into a CD player that displays the track names, mostly they are incorrect. However the band assures me that this will be sorted by the next pressing. This in no way detracts from the musical experience of the record.
The one thing that does however, is the way that the second-guitar seems to use the same reverb-delay effect in almost every guitar melody. These don't detract from the songs per se, but can make it appear a bit samey in places.
This is one of the finest albums I have heard in a long time and the samples, organs, and synths make this disc stand out as one of the most original 'hardcore' (I use the term loosely) records to have been written in the last 3-4 years.
This band is going far. Remember where you heard the name. Don’t look back.
Credits Acquired Tastes View Website

One of the most promising European bands.
Credits FranticSound.dk

DELUGE / FORDIRELIFESAKE
"Self-Titled Split" CD - SKIPW006

Split EP's are an interesting breed. In many cases, they bring together two bigger bands (Snapcase vs. Boy Sets Fire, Nora/The Dillenger Escape Plan, etc) that aren't quite ready to release a full length on one CD. The flip side of that is what we have here, the new Fordirelifesake / Deluge split, which brings together the diverse stylings of Detroit, Michigan's Fordirelifesake with the dramatics of Holland's Deluge. By far my favorite half of the EP comes from Fordirelifesake, who kick off the first three songs of the EP. I love their blend of speedier riffage behind harmonizing vocals (both screaming and singing). All five members of the band blend their vocals together to create a very unique sound. Ranging somewhere in between hardcore and emo, Fordirelifesake runs the gamut of emotions and turns it into amazing music. The at times grove driven guitars blend well with the vocal layering and then switch over to destruction with the screams. This is a band you have to hear to believe and fully appreciate.
I don't have anything against Deluge's half of the EP, but I definitely like Fordirelifesake's more. Deluge brings a more dramatic and dynamic feel to the same type of multi-genre shifting heaviness. Their second track is an instrumental, which on an EP is a little disappointing, but the other two songs are clock in in and around six minutes in length, more then making up for it. There is a slight accent on the vocals, which is ok. It isn't as noticeable as say, Caliban, but it's there. That's just me nit-picking though. It does rock hard, blending European styled metal with American hardcore breakdown, even blending in some piano here and there to make it a little dramatic at times. I really dig the track "Heart Broken Words," which clocks in just over six minutes.
The main purpose of this EP is to bring each band exposure in different parts of the world. With Deluge set to join Fordirelifesake on a full US tour sometime in 2004, Fordirelifesake fan's will head into the show with an idea of what Deluge is all about. On the flip side, Deluge's European following will provide plenty of exposure for Fordirelifesake across the pond in Europe. This EP is definitely a good buy, because I am definitely going to watch out for Fordirelifesake next time they come around town. Fans of bands like Poison The Well, Thrice and Shai Hulud will dig this EP.
Credits Theundergroundscene.net

How to describe FORDIRELIFESAKE? A hyperactive narcoleptic child off their meds, riding on the world's largest rollercoaster, backwards. These guys are all over the place, racing melodies and rythyms one minute, the next nicely voiced chord holds. I am completely impressed with their ability to do this and have it make sense. At no point was I expecting what was around the corner. If I had to pick a favorite new CD it would be FOREDIRELIFESAKE. I was completely blown away by their talent. DELUGE are no joke in their own rights. Great build ups, screaming vocals (reminisant of Patton}, unbelievably fast rythyms, and integerity to boot. This is a split CD I can't put down in any respect, well worth owning. I can't wait to see what the future holds for these bands. Kudo's to SKipworth and Thorp for putting two of the most intriging bands together on one split CD.
Credits Upstarter.com

Splits aren't always the most joyful things to review because you usually get one really good band and a crappy band with filler songs. Not on this split. Fordirelifesake and Deluge have crafted an EP that is worthy of being placed next to my Piecemeal/Die My Will split.
Fordirelifesake: Imagine Converge, Thursday and Waterdown all swimming around in a petri dish, then the whole thing violently overflows in complete chaos. Welcome to Fordirelifesake. Fordirelifesake is a unique blend of melodic emo note scales and metalcore riffs topped with crushing drums and Convergesque vocals. Make sense? Not really, but when you listen and sort it all out it will.
Deluge: Deluge takes Fordirelifesake to the next level. They drop the emo and just bash your head in with metalcore chaos. There's so much speed and devastating guitar work that it's hard to separate where one riff starts and the other ends. Metalcore is a sub genre that could use some refreshing and Deluge refreshes a plenty. The music is so intelligent that it reminds you of the craftsmanship of the middle Metallica and early Slayer albums. A lot of time and effort went into this music and it shines in the end.
Credits Hitthepit.com Rating 10/10

This Skipworth Europe / Thorp USA release features Michigan’s Fordirelifesake and Holland’s Deluge. Both bands lay somewhere within the metal/hardcore spectrum, but neither fits into it perfectly, making for a varied and interesting listen.
Fordirelifesake begins the split, and within the first 30 seconds or so of my initial listen, I was not very pleased. Fordirelifesake has that sort of Hopesfall-ish melodic appeal, albeit much more technical. It took more than a few listens to appreciate the intricate nature of the songs, which weave complex (but not overly technical) guitar riffs, usually harmonized, over equally complex drum work. And while the vocals might catch you off-guard at first, due to the inordinate amount of harmonized singing mixed with more scathing, again, Hopesfall-like screaming, the whole of Fordirelifesake’s songs overshadow that aspect of their music. Needless to say, it’s fairly catchy stuff, especially the first track, “We Burn In Our Own Comfort,” and the noodling guitars (certainly the highlight of these three songs) and melodic and dynamic breakdowns are very much worth sticking around for. My only initial complaint about Fordirelifesake was the harmonized singing, but again, after a few more listens, it’s easy to see how the music overall would lack without it.
Holland’s Deluge takes over after Fordirelifesake, and the change is noticeable if not a little drastic. Deluge’s songs actually are a series of “parts” that revolve around the central theme of friendship, though the most conspicuous commonality between all three tracks are the piano pieces that accompany each song. “Heal Broken Words,” the first track on Deluge’s side, sounds more like their older material, with plenty of fast, hardcore punk-influenced drumming and quick guitar work. If you like spoken word/piano instrumental stuff ala Godspeed You Black Emperor and A Silver Mt. Zion, “I Had A Friend” is a pleasing enough track, though I recommend skipping to the last one, which, music-wise, is the direction Deluge seems to be taking more and more. And I hope they continue to due so, since Deluge is definitely capable of blending the more melodic aspects of metal with driving hardcore punk riffs and desperate-sounding vocals (think Lack, if you’ve ever heard of them).
And by the way, I hate to complain about such a decent record, but this album has one of the most atrocious layouts I have ever seen. If you thought that City of Caterpillar’s self-titled CD was kind of ugly, it pales in comparison to this. We’re talking massive amounts of brown, gray, and sludge here. Not appealing at all. Luckily, the great recording quality and overall charm of this album make up for this one downside.
Bottom Line: Aside from the whole layout situation, this split isn’t half bad. Both bands are different enough to make the CD worthwhile, and despite their contrariety, both Deluge and Fordirelifesake go quite well together, like proverbial peas and carrots, though Fordirelifesake takes the cake on this one. It’s also ineteresting to see Thorp put out something a little more progressive as opposed to what they have been more apt to release.
Credits Lambgoat.com Rating 73/100

Splits aren't always the easiest things to review, because you usually get one really good band and a crappy band with filler songs. Mark this as an exception. Fordirelifesake and Deluge have crafted an EP that is worthy of being placed next to my Piecemeal/Die My Will split. Fordirelifesake: Imagine Converge, Thursday and Waterdown all swimming around in a petri dish, then the whole thing violently overflows in complete chaos. Fordirelifesake is a unique blend of melodic emo note scales and metalcore riffs topped with crushing drums. Deluge: These guys take Fordirelifesake to the next level by dropping the emo and just bashing your head in with metalcore chaos. There's so much speed and devastating guitar work that it's hard to separate where one riff starts and another ends. Metalcore is a sub genre that could use some refreshing and Deluge is an ice-cold salvation. A lot of time and effort went into this music and it shines in the end. Pit Grade: 10 out of 10
Credits Weeklydig.com

DELUGE sind zurück. Die holländische Band die mittlerweile aus 5 Mitgliedern besteht, sticht mit ihrem Kunstwerk, Melodie mit nach vorne gehendem moshigen Oldschool-HC zu verbinden, sofort ins Ohr. Ihr neues Werk, "Friendship Falls With Ego", das wie beim Vorgänger mit einem Pianostück beginnt, besteht aus 2 neuen Songs und einem Instrumental-Stück. DELUGE haben es nicht verlernt ihrem Musikstil treu zu sein. Im Gegensatz zur letzten CD, der "Spot In The Shadow", ist die Musik etwas strukturierter geworden. Die übergreifenden Parts sind besser getroffen, Instrument & Stimme sind gut aufeinander abgestimmt und man merkt vor allem bereits beim ersten Durchhören, das die Qualität von Gesang wie auch von dem Rest der Band sich um einiges verbessert hat. Die Band ist erwachsener geworden. Die Texte, die von Freundschaft und Politik handeln, lassen im Gegensatz zum letzten Werk etwas mehr Gedankenspielraum zu.
FORDIRELIFESAKE sind 5 junge Leute aus den Staaten und stellen sich auf ihrem Europa-Debut mit 3 aktuellen Songs auf ihrer Splithälfte vor. Mit ihrem melodiösen wie auch turbulenten Hardcoreemopunkrock-Gemisch erinnern sie mich spontan sehr an Breath In, die ich von einer Split mit TimeInMalta kenne wie auch an andere bekannte bands aus den Staaten wie Shai Hulud oder auch Atreyu. Hier treffen Melodie, Wut im Bauch und Emotionen zusammen die von den beiden Gittaristen, unterstützend, gekonnt ins passende Licht gerückt wird. Eine interessante Band, die trotz des durchlaufenden melodiösen Hintergrundes nicht einseitig erscheint und passagenweise dank der Melodien mich auch irgendwie an GetUpKids erinnern die sie sich wohl auch als lyrisches Vorbild nahmen, die Texte sind Emotionen pur, durchdacht und gut aufgeschrieben. Auf ein umfangreiches booklet wurde bei den insgesamt 6 Stücken verzichtet, jedoch wurden alle Songtexte wie auch persönlicheres auf insgesamt 3 Doppelseiten verbreitet, farblich sehr gut untermalt mit vielen Farben und Verzierungen/Zeichnungen, somit ist fürs Auge ist auch was dabei.
Credits Corezine.de

This six-song EP showcases two interesting bands in Hardcore: Fordirelifesake from Detroit and Deluge out of the Netherlands.
Fordirelifesake starts out the EP with their brand of technically impressive, solo-based Hardcore. Their guitar acrobatics are simply amazing with both guitarists wailing away at hyper-speed into technical breakdowns, only to go back into overdrive with another dual riff assault. It really makes you wonder how this is recreated live when the guitarists launch solo after solo. The one drawback to this dynamic is that it often overpowers the other instruments (including the vocals) but when the riffs are this complex and good, there really is not much room to complain. They also have some pretty weird and interesting guitar effects that being a guitarist myself, I could not help but wonder how they were done.
Vocally, the band sticks to the usual singing/screaming dynamic that is appropriate if not a bit average. Thankfully, the melodic vocals sound well and come in at the right moments, and the throat ripping is not too over-the-top. The rhythm section shines with plenty of key moments, particularly with some of the bass lines. Lyrically, it is also a relief the band strays away from the girl-done-me-wrong subject and focuses on introspective, philosophical issues. Overall, I found it pretty refreshing to hear a band that emphasizes melody instead of sheer brutality in these Metalcore-infested days.
Deluge is perhaps the only band I have ever heard out of the Netherlands and they were also very enjoyable to listen to. My only complain is that their second track is a very brief instrumental offering over some voice samples, which is kind of a letdown when you have a recording that is only six songs in length. It would have been nice to hear a little bit more of what Deluge has to offer.
The most interesting aspect I found is the band’s affinity for somber melodies. Deluge begins their share of the EP with a little bit of piano (frequent throughout their songs) before pummeling the listener, which is superbly done. Their sound has a raw, live quality to it that gives you the impression this is one of those bands that sounds exactly the same live as they do in recording. There is a noticeable absence of melodic vocals, but the lead singer does a pretty decent job barking away ferociously. The guitar work is pretty inventive with its fair share of technicality. The rhythm section sounds pretty capable, but I really found it difficult to give a more detailed description of their sound with only two actual tracks. Overall, they have a more straight-forward approach to Hardcore than Fordirelifesake but they are still an exemplary offering of the genre.
Even for an EP, the recording is a little short but it is still worth the money. Hardcore fans cannot go wrong with checking out both of these bands or tracking down their respective full-lengths. I expect great things from both in the future.
Credits Punknews.org

Fordirelifesake intrigued me when I saw them in December of 2002, but I didn't get a complete feel for them as some of their members weren't able to make it to the show, and they played short one person. Now that the band has their music more readily available through the always efficient Thorp Records, I can easily envision Fordirelifesake garnering some well-deserved attention, while Deluge will put their name on the map as a potentially great metalcore band.
Fordirelifesake kicks off this six-song split with a truly inventive brand of metalcore. Imagine, if you will, a smooth blend of Converge-like chaos and breakdowns, with guitar and vocal melodies in the vein of Thrice. The most notable musical aspect of Fordirelifesake is their masterful guitar work, which ranges from wildly technical string plucking to heavy, mosh inducing riffs and discord. The vocals are fairly typical -- raspy, mid-ranged screams -- but much appreciated and unabused singing is tastefully incorporated to keep things interesting. The second track, "These Nights Will Define Me," benefits the most from some really infectious vocal melodies, and everything is tied together with a precise percussive assault. Fordirelifesake are quite technical, with loads of tempo shifts, but everything sounds very natural. Hints of punk rock and oldschool hardcore, and some crushing breakdowns add much excitement, but in tasteful proportions.
Surpassing Fordirelifesake's stellar performance is no easy task, and while Deluge don't posess the same innovative qualities, they still manage to handle their end of the split quite well. As another solid metalcore band, Deluge tends to incorporate some solid, straightforward hardcore elements and breakdowns with metallic riffs and raspy vocals. Their opening track, "Heal Broken Words," clocks in at over six minutes of pure enjoyment, as the band journeys through musical genres with shredding guitar work and blazing percussion. Between the two musical tracks is a short interlude, which is a bit disappointing, but the closer provides more solid, yet slightly predictable music (although the blast beats toward the end weren't expected). Should Deluge find something more original to incorporate into their music, I think they could have definite potential to stick out among the crowd.
This is definitely one of the better splits I've experienced, as the bands seem to accompany one another quite well, and the packaging and artwork are nicely done. Any fans of the metalcore genre would be doing themselves a favor by checking out either one of these bands. Fordirelifesake steals the show, but Deluge still has the potential to become a bigger name. Don't miss this.
Credits Geekburger.com Rating 8.5/10

Two competent and even promising hardcore bands come together in this six-track split. Fordirelifesake starts off with a bang, dropping frenetic and unpredictable hardcore with emo-flavored breakdowns and metal-solo melodies. By the end of their run, Fordirelifesake begins to feel a bit formulaic, but what they do, they do well. And it's certainly to their credit that they can do it really quickly.
Deluge steps in with a soft little piano interlude and proceeds to rip that memory to shreds at breakneck speed. They seem to stay true to their band name, flooding the ears with thrashy songs and heavy breakdowns. It leaves the split with two significantly different hardcore bands who complement each other nicely. All things considered, it's not a bad investment.
Credits Inkdrinker.net

Fordirelifesake are a metalcore outfit from Detroit that produced three tracks, all blended together in a barrage of back-room hardcore, melodic metal and pop-like emocore... close to the likes of Poison the Well and Thursday colliding. Throaty vocals, crushing chords and cymbals smashing meet melodious guitars, emotional singing and rounded out with rock sensibility. "We Burn In Our Own Comfort" blazes a trail from the start, and "These Nights Will Define Me" brings things to a slower pace, but still amazingly heavy throughout. "Insecurities Securing Tragedy" is their standout track on this release, as it blends it all together best. Deluge is (also) a five-piece, but from the Netherlands (Holland). They waste no time by not giving their intro a name (as if it was a different song - though they make that mistake with "I Had A Friend"). Thrash guitars, relentless speed picking, sandpaper vocals for two songs of screamo beatdown. "Strikes the Heart" is furious, but at times shows us there may be more to this than just "heavy". Two songs? No complaint, but I do want to hear more. Well, they could have put a real song in "I Had A Friend"'s place.
Credits Feastofhateandfear.com

Split-cd van het Alkmaarse Deluge en Fordirelifesake uit Chicago. Deluge maakt een soort melo-industrial symphonische soundtrackcore, om het beestje maar eens een naam te geven. Klinkt nogal gedateerd maar zit goed in elkaar en muzikaal en technisch is het dik in orde, ook al zijn de afwisselingen van pianissimo en fortissimo tamelijk talrijk en nogal voorspelbaar. In ruim tien minuten voert Deluge een complete opera op en die verveelt geen moment, maar veel langer zou het ook niet moeten duren. Niet voor de luie luisteraar.
Credits NPI NL

Fordirelifesake have been a generating a decent amount of attention in the States lately, largely to the rise in popularity of that breakneck, start-stop-stomp-wail, formula of metal and hardcore. Much like their contemporaries in From Autumn To Ashes (though with far less dramatic intersections), these guys have that uncanny approach to songwriting that models the common blender speed of "pulverize." Like gummy bears over an ice cream sundae, melodic, searing vocals are dripped on top of the madness of the rhythm section. At times Fordirelifesake remind me of my 20 year old Datsun - with every quick turn, you're not entirely positive a wheel (or two) isn't going to come flying off. This band's three songs seriously slay, and I can't wait until they get another full-length out.
As for Deluge's half of the split - the outlook isn't so positive. These guys are definitely aimed towards the more "tech" side of the metal/hardcore spectrum, but their super-fast thrash blurs together some of the intricate parts into nondescript chunks of noise. The band's three songs are all part of a concept, and an unfortunate instrumental track kills the flow between the first and third sledge-hammerings. Also, Deluge's vocals sound more garbled than the normal variance for a hardcore band, and that makes their three songs less than stunning, but on the whole, nothing to sulk over.
To round out this disc, eye-catching artwork is duly noted, but the font on the cover of the respective bands could be a bit larger. Anyway, for those who find From Autumn To Ashes to be a tad "over the top" with their craft, Fordirelifesake comes to the rescue with their organ-churning sound, and less theatrics. Deluge, while not one of the better hardcore bands I've heard lately, doesn't do enough damage to makes this split not worth your consideration.
By Jordan A. Baker Credits Pastepunk.com

As many fans have noticed by now, the Dutch hardcore scene is finally getting recognition in the last couple of years. Bands like Born From Pain, Backfire! and Discipline have all received the respect they deserve. Another name can now be added to the list, namely Deluge. Playing huge shows for some years now with names like Atreyu and in the future Poison The Well.
Now comes the time that they release a split EP with metalcore/noisecore band Fordirelifesake. This self-titled EP contains six songs, three done by Deluge and three by Foredirelifesake. It all starts with a calm before the storm. A soothing and quiet piano intro guides you into chaos with the first track “Heal Broken Words”. Chaos absolutely ensues on the track as riffs and simple solo’s go hand in hand. This combined with singer Auke spitting his lyrics out with a fury not heard before sets the standard for the next two tracks.
For those who never heard of Deluge before, let me tell you what to expect. Deluge plays an awesome mix of old school punk, hardcore and metalcore, with some small death metal influence here and there, though not really worthy of mentioning.
Onto Fordirelifesake. They kick off with “We Burn In Our Own Comfort”, a hard hitting song that keeps a fast and steady pace. Lots of breaks and throaty vocals, combined with a melodic voice. This all mixes very well together and keeps the listener interested in what cool breaks are next. Fordirelifesake is metalcore in its purest form with hints of emo. Pure agression and emotion steamrolls through all of the songs. Unlike Deluge, this band is somewhat more technical with lots of changes in melodies, riffs and pace changes. A very interesting band to listen to. To conclude this review, I’d like to say that hardcore fans as well as metalcore fans will find this split awesome, but a bit short, considering it only contains 6 songs. As for myself, I look forward to hearing more of both bands, Fordirelifesake in particular. This is a great EP but it leaves you wanting.
By Robert Graalman Credits Roar e-Zine Rating 4.5/5

Schon viel zu lange liegt diese Split hier. Nun endlich aber mal das Review. Auf dieser CD sind wohl 2 der Newcomerbands schlechthin vertreten jede mit 3 Songs, angefangen mit Deluge. Diese Band macht den Schritt weiter den keine andere Hardcore Band bisher gemacht hat und beweist mit diesen 3 neuen Songs einfach das sie Potential haben. Im bereich Emo-Hardcore sind sie auf jeden Fall ein Part der Bands die es wirklich schaffen Können.
ForDireLifeSake sind hingegen eine der Newcomer aus den Staaten und erinnern mich ständig an alte Shai Hulud Platten oder andre treibende NewSchool, Metalcore Bands. Fakt ist das auch ihre Songs zum Kopfnicken verführen, und gut durchstrukturiert sind. Sehr Variabler Gesang mit viel Gefühl und auch immer wieder die dazupassenden Gitarrenmelodien weisen uns den Weg in die kleine Welt von FDLS.
Insgesamt ist noch anzumerken das die Produktionen ein wenig besser sein könnten, das ganze aber mit dem schicken Artwork wieder gute gemacht wird. Wenn ihr die CD rumliegen seht, greifft zu... es lohnt sich!
By Simone Credits Allschools.net Germany Rating 7/10

Deluge are certainly giving their Netherlands homeland something to be fearful of - with the three-part "Friendship Falls With Ego" the quintet kick and scream through their half of the CD. There's "Heal Broken Words" where the piano-led opening ponder is suddenly ripped right open by their cruel-to-be-kind brand of sumpathetic symphonies. Taking hostage the sonic batterings of From Autumn To Ashes, adding extra-coarse hardcore stylings to reflect the bitter side of life, these boys have been walked over a few times and now they're taking revenge! And if Fordirelifesake are just as angry, it simmers beneath the surface of impossible fret-board gymnastics (that axe-man certainly has some fast fingers!). This Michigan troupe prefer subtlety to severity as metalcore continues to forge their molten journey, pushing the realms of hardcore to the limit. Don't let this one pass you by.
By Ronnie Kerswell Credits Rock Sound Magazine Rating 7/10

The minute you look at this CD you know it's going to rock. Not only is the packaging superb, it bears the name "Skipworth" - a label renowned, by Fury at least, for sheer quality and dedication. This CD is no exception.
Deluge haven't released anything for a while, and to be honest I wasn't expecting a lot from them, but the tracks on here (although following a slightly pretentious "theme") are a move in the right direction. Their subtle cocktail of old school punk attitude and poignant emocore melody works really well and sets them out from the hardcore mob by a mile. It's great to see innovation still exists in the generic hardcore scene. I can't wait to hear a full length from Deluge now.
Fordirelifesake's half is basically more in the same vein of their stunning debut "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function". These songs can't have been recorded long after the album and all the old tricks are there - eclectic vocals layered over scattered guitar with fast drums underpinning the whole thing. FDLS manage to sound scrappy yet tight, punk yet technical and beautiful yet abhorrent without sounding collaged. Unfortunately the production still isn't as tight as I would like it to be. They're a brilliant band but they haven't peaked yet. I'm looking forward to new full lengths from both bands and I'm sure Skipworth will deliver the goods!
By Marcus Credits Furyfanzine.com

Skipworth did it again. One of Europe’s most dedicated labels releases another winner, adding more quality to the labels rooster, without changing the direction really. This time it is a split from Deluge from the Netherlands and FDLS from the USA. Deluge are already the 2nd band of this update that may be called "old school" and are nontheless able to convince in any way. But wait: In fact, this has some elements of the old school, like typical fast parts, but as they include so nice, almost metallic, double base supported breakdowns this is too modern to really speak of old school. When they offer you the first, 6 minutes long anthem with speed, breakdowns and a nice rocking part that ends into an emotional climax you know that these guys want more… Another feature of this band is, as you may have guessed, the melodic hookline the 2nd guitar twists into your ear. Songstructures fit well into this label and the split, with being highly dynamic, surprising and innovative for a genre that needs sounds like this. I sometimes was reminded of all the Swedish bands that did the groundbreaking music 5 or 6 years ago on labels like Desperate Fight – and that is still a good memory. Great musicianship as well.
FDLS are back with 3 new songs as well, and this time they are recorded & produced better than the last CD, which is important for their music. The 3 songs are again quite complex and not in your ears after the first listen, but if you take another round you notice the beauty and the energy they develop. Combining complex rythms with 2 dozens of melodies for each song, this is a perfect bastard of Shai Hulud, Hopesfall, Newborn and maybe Deluge. Furthermore, the shouter shifts from screaming to singing, adding more flavour to their already tasty music. When they start off into the first song, with a fast part, before getting into a twisted rhythm, underligned by a cool melodie you can hardly escape tis band. Songstructures are better than on the first CD, as this is more fluent and therefore better. Listening to their melodies gives me shiver. Still one of the most promising acts that deserve all your attention. This is the way the new school should have developed instead of copying metal bands.
I already know about the next signing of Skipworth, and it fits well into the existing rooster, making this label famous for that modern, dynamic and melodic hardcore I dig so much. If Newborn would return, this would be their new home.
By Phil Credits Poisonfree.com

It seems that Skipworth is heading to the top of European labels that releases passionate metallic music. This release is a direct proof of this. Two great bands have combined their love of music on this split release with a great result. Deluge from Holland starts with a piano intro. I was quit delighted to hear some new material of these guys because it has been suspicious quiet around Deluge after their latest release two years ago but fortunately they’re still around. The piano intro fades while the noisy guitars fade in. Deluge goes on in the same line as their last album but now the keyboard is not presented anymore. To my great surprise I don’t miss it that much because these tracks are still very diverse and Deluge still have managed to maintain their own sound and even made their songs better with better worked out songs. The personal lyrics are based around the concept of ‘Friendship falls with ego’. I only hope that they will release more songs next time, especially because one of the three songs is an instrumental one. I love their music and I can’t wait to hear more new songs. ForDireLifeSake also continue in the same line as their previous release so you can expect some more technical but also groundbreaking and intense music. Just like Deluge ForDireLifeSake also have got a broad and diverse sound with makes all the songs on this split worth the listen. One split with two original, intense, rocking hardcore bands, what do I want more? If Skipworth will go on releasing music with such a high quality they’ll be one of the most important European labels within a short time. This release is not satisfying for people who only want to stick to music that’s already done for about a thousand times before, this is refreshing and makes me looking forward to the next releases of Skipworth in the future.
By Paco Credits Insideknowledge.net

Deluge, from Holland, made a big impression with their first full-length album. This album, Spot In The Shadow, was released on the Tolerance label in 2000. Filled with rather good songs, rather fast and emotional but also with a "new" sound, due to the piano. It tasted well and made me want more! And now, here it is, a split album with Fordirelifesake on the Skipworth Record label. After a calm piano intro Deluge slaps me in the middle of my face with very fucked up and very fast hardcore in their typical style. Vocalist Auke alternates screaming with a normal voice. The songs on this album are very rhythmic and sometimes rather spheric. One point of critisism; three songs, that is not enough! I want more!
Fordirelifesake is a new band for me. Fordirelifesake plays metalcore with a very own taste. Same as the songs of Deluge the songs are furious, fast and groovy. What I like most of this part of the album are the vocalists. Fordelifesake compure pure screaming with a clean second voice. I think I have to get my punkass op to my dealer and get their first album. Thank you guys, thank you for making that kind of music that lets me trash my funiture!
By Sebastiaan Credits Pitfather.com

The first thing I noticed when I laid my eyes on this album was the beautiful artwork, but it’s always the question if the beauty also continues music wise. Listening to this 6 song split I can announce that I surely wasn’t misled by the artwork. The first three songs are done by Deluge from the Netherlands. After an intro on the piano, the band kicks in with fast catchy melodic hardcore, before I know it I’m suppressing the feeling of wanting to mosh. One fine riff after another pass by, bringing a great variation in there music going from parts with a nice emotional atmosphere to aggressive fast and moshy parts. It surprises me how much this band has developed over the years. I can still remember the times this band played Ska/punkrock orientated music. Bottom line; Deluge has put three class act songs down on this split.
ForDireLifeSake, well this must be one of the most promising bands around at the moment. These guys surely did some splendid songwriting on these songs. I am almost ashamed to admit but this is the first time I heard this band. Why didn’t I discover their first record “Breathing In Is Only Half The Function” before!?… anyway for all who don’t know yet, Detroits ForDireLifeSake play melodic metallic hardcore in the vein of bands like Shai Hulud and Poison The Well… You might think now “Oh, another Shai hulud PTW comparison”. This band is really worth that comparison. Lately a lot of bands try to do this screaming-singing-melody-metal-core style but FDLS really does the job like it should. You should really take time to listen to these songs, melodies just come flashing by at high speeds. Had to hear the songs 4 times before my brains absorbed all the melodies and now I had a little taste I have the appetite for more ForDireLifeSake. I can’t wait for their next release. In a nutshell, Skipworth Records came up with an awesome Split-CD with this one. Don’t miss out!
By Daniel Credits Codex4.org

I was anxiously awaiting the release of this split cd so I was very happy when I found it in my mailbox about a week ago... I already heard the Deluge songs (they live about 10 min. away from me) but holding/listening to the complete package on your own stereo is quite another experience. I've seen this band develop from an average punkrock/ska/hardcore band to a tight group with an own unique sound. Take elements from Shai Hulud, Poison The Well and Cave In throw em in a blender and you'll a hint of what Deluge sound like. Their first song "Heal Broken Words" begins with a peacefull piano intro and then bursts into the song.. Compared to their '00 debut cd "Spot In The Shadow" they head into a more chaotic, less hardcore style. They definitely take a original approach to songwriting so it never gets boring, especially the guitar work is amazingly good. The production is excellent as well.. Only complaint is that there are only three new songs (of which one is a short instrumental interlude) after waiting this long for a new release I hoped for a little more.
The other three songs are from Detroit's Fordirelifesake. They can be placed under the same musical banner as Deluge but their vocals are a little bit more growling instead of screaming. Their debut record called "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" was quite good but they take their talents a step further on these three songs. Great musicianship combined with emotional vocals makes me wonder what their upcoming full length will sound like. "We Burn In Our Own Comfort", "These Nights Will Define Me" and "Insecurities Securing Tragedy" leave me wanting more.. much more...! To top everything of this CD comes in a beautifull packaging made by Apt13 (From Autumn To Ashes, Prevail) this release is definitely something to get your hands on! Highly recommended if you're into melodic passionate hardcore.
By Ivar Credits Wmtd.nl

Two of the world's most talented, creative and outstanding hardcore metal rock bands come together on this release. Incredibly emtional, passionate and original songs by both bands for fans of hardcore, emo, pop-punk and metal. Deluge mixing their live energetic songs with very fast drumming and melodies as well as adding thoughtful piano parts. Fordirelifesake return after an astoundingly succesful album once again proving they are well head of all the USA musically and in terms of their extensive touring; For fans of Shai Hulud, Poison The Well, early Cave In and Newborn.
By Sonic Credits Sonic Rendevous Holland

Alliance Trax Japan review (Japanese).
By Daiki Takeda Credits Alliance Trax / Extend Magazine Japan

It starts with Deluge, from The Netherlands, with a nice piece of piano. Then, the music comes and set the tone with a fast punk hardcore influenced metal and some mosh parts. There are some quiet bits as well, which are atmospheric, driving and passionate. Lyrics wise, it’s personal and their concept is about friendship. ForDireLifeSake are hailing from the US of A. As their previous materials, they still deliver this fast metallic hardcore and it is even better. The recording is more worked than their first album, the mix of heavy music and melodies is just awesome, and the songs seem to be more structured. Basically, I would say FDLS gained in maturity. Lyrics are still personal. The design of the cover/booklet is really nice and I just really dig it. Also, it is the first cd I got with written 2003 on it. Maybe you don’t care but that’s something I always look, the first cd I got from a new year :-) Usually, there is always a band you would prefer on a split, but here, they are both awesome bands with 6 killer tracks, all together! If you are into Newborn, Aversion or even Shai Hulud, you will surely love this cd! Personally, I think this disc will be stuck in the cd player for a while.
By Tgfom Credits The Great Fall Of Man Zine Australia

NEW! Long awaited split - 2 amazing melodic metalcore bands.
By Edward Credits Goodlife Recordings

After "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" from Fordirelifesake, which came out back in July (2002), I was interested to find out how the split by them and Deluge would turn out. Only 6 tracks long, 3 by Deluge first then the final 3 by Fordirelifesake. "Heal Broken Words" is the first song. The piano intro is overtaken by distortion on the guitar you are thrown into a crush of guitars and drums and furious vocals all battling to be heard, played together as though it were meant to be a song; and it sure as hell is a bloody good one. Always an important track, when it’s finished you look at the track listing and your heart sinks that there are only another 5 tracks to go. One thing that I did not think too happenin’ was track 2. 6 tracks and track 2 skimps out, with what I thought might have been a nice build-up, into another one of those sampled tracks with people talking over a track with potential, though track 3, like track 1, makes up for it once again by grabbing you and proceeding to throttle you. Though I must admit, it aint half bad for a band which could have been accused of going rusty on the release front. All the same, the song writing is great and the 3 tracks are crammed with emotion and melody.
The second half of the CD, Fordirelifesake, I probably prefer, just from the style of vocals used on this split. The entire band is noted down as vocals, an amazing range is reached. The contrasts do well to compliment each other. These songs are well organized and the careful construction shines through. Along with the inimitable instrumentation on the bass, drums and guitars you have to appreciate the true intense hardcore on offer on this CD. Just as great and powerful as the outstanding material on "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" this is truely worthy of anyone into hardcore.
And if, like FDLS’s last LP; breathing in is only half the function, then surely the other half is to get this CD!
By Joanna Credits Rgmonster.com

Holy Jesus! Skippy called me after he missed his flight home to Spain! (hahaha!) and he told me that the cd`s just got here.....................dam! After knowing this i ran fast as a man can run to his house full prepared with a change of pants! Well holy belomy! i needed to 2 pairs of new pants! Well one pair when i saw the cd! and 5 minutes later after changing to my new ones he put the cd on to play, that where a second pair would of came in real happy!

The cd just looks simply amazing! i could look at it forever, and to complete the killing when hearing the whole cd if your jaw does not hit the ground you are not human! I am already thinking cd of the year!

GREAT JOB AUKE, SIMON, TOBIAS, BART, TACO......i love you guys! oh and thanks for the sweet message in the booklet! KUS!!
By Mark McCann

FORDIRELIFESAKE
"Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" CD - SKIPW005

Translation Below - Hmmm.. Jaatzistas gan, ka pec pirmas noklausišanas reizes isti neiebraucu un varbut pat man tik loti nepatika. Tomer klausoties vairakkart ši grupa iepatikas pat loti. Ar laiku pieradu pie gitaras soliniem un metaliskajiem rifiniem, kas nu man liekas pat loti simpatiski. Ši ir vel viena grupa ar atram, diezgan melodiskam, bet vienlaikus pasmagam dziesmam ar krietnu devu emocionalitates. Atškiriba no citam tada veida grupam Fordirelifesake vokals ir diezgan ipatnejs [ja ne gluži ka Catharsis, tad uz to pusi, manuprat, ir], ipatneji ir gitaras solini [un ari gicas efekts, ar kadu šie solini tiek speleti], tapat grupa izcelas ar meitenes vokalu dažbrid [un varu teikt, loooooti burvigu meitenes vokalu]. Nedaudz divains ir fakts, ka visi (!!!) parejie grupas dalibnieki piedzied, kas dažbrid izveršas diezgan emocionala un piesatinata blaustišana ar daudziem backvokaliem aizmugure plus meitene - diezgan piepildita skana. Varbut dažbrid nevajag to emocionalo balsi, tomer atseviškas dziesmas to aizstaj, un kopuma klausities ir loti patikami. Vel interesanti, ka dziesmas ir cieši savienotas un dažbrid var nepamanit, ka tas nomainas. Tomer es neteiktu, ka tas ir lidzigas, protams, savs stils caurvijas visam diskam, tomer piestradats ir pamatigi un puikas spele pat loti profesionali. Hmm. Kopuma jasaka, viens no pedeja laika labakajiem atradumiem šaja emocionala+metaliska hardcore laucina - protams, šis stils pats par sevi ir loti patikams, bet nu jamak jau ari spelet un izdomat šitik sarežgitas un piesatinatas dziesmas. Te ir loti daudz ka un man patik jau patik ši emocionala muzika. Es vertetu ar 5..

English Translation - Hmmm.... When I first listened to this album I didn't really get into it and I guess even didn't like it that much but when I listened to it more, I started to fall in love with the music they're playing. After some time I got used to the weird guitar solos and metallic riffs, which I started to like pretty much. This is a band with fast, a bit melodic and yet very heavy songs with a great dose of emotionality. I think what differs FDLS from other that kinda band is the vocals (if not exactly like CATHARSIS then something like that for sure), interesting guitar solos (and the effect, which is used to play them). Also, the band uses a girl's vocal in their songs very nice (and I'd say, the vocal is verrrrry beautiful). A bit interesting to me seemed the fact that all (!!!) of the other musicians sing backvocals, what sometimes goes into very emotional and full screaming + a girl - it all makes the sound very rich and nice. Maybe sometimes it could have been better without "the emotional vocals" but some songs replace it quite good so it's still very interesting to listen. The other very interesting thing is that all the songs are put very close together so very often you can't even tell where the next song starts and where the previous ends. Although I definately wouldn't say all the songs sound the same. Offcourse, you can feel their style throughout the whole album but you can feel there has been a lot of work on each song and guys play very very proffessional. hmm.. at the end I should say that this is the best band I know in emo/metalcore style. Well, ofcourse this style itself is always very interesting but you have to know how to play it and create such complicated and dynamic songs. This record has so many interesting things in it and I dig this music very much. I would rate this record as 5 of 5. :)
By Stray Credits Alternative.lv

At first listen this is all a bit confusing. Guitars squealing all over the place, men screaming, women wailing and drums pounding - it's easy to get lost at first. But stick with it - it gets a lot better from here on in.
After the chaos of opening track "10-31-99" subsides, we're left with a stunning debut album. Fordirelifesake - from Detroit, Michigan - are set to be your new favourite USHC band. They do what all the new wave of hardcore bands seem to be doing - combining singing, screaming, heaviness and melody - but, like Poison The Well, they do it so much better than most of them.
All these components and the stunning guitarists piling on layers of melody which combine to make a polyphonic sonic masterpiece. The song structures are complex but you soon learn them off by heart and the catchy guitar and vocal lead will have you singing for months. There's even a heartfelt acoustic track on here, which does not sound out of place like the token ballads on some hardcore albums, but fits the moment perfectly and fully complements the album. Beautiful female vocals also add much-needed diversity and stop the record getting stale.
I can't even begin to describe how good "Sometimes Like The Tide" is - just buy it and listen to it, fans of Poison The Well, Shai Hulud and UK's Incoherence will not be disappointed.
By Marcus Credits Furyfanzine.com

Every once in a while, you hear a band that instantly convinces you. So does Fordirelifesake from Detroit! Not very often do I hear a band with such a variety in their songs; from very fast and chaotic metalrifs to nice warm and rocking emo, they just have it all. I especially like the fact that they use a female singer for some of the backing vocals. Fordirelifesake can be best described as a mixture between From Autumn to Ashes, Converge and maybe a bit of Shai Hulud, although they do have a really unique sound, which can be heard in the insane guitarrifs and solo's. Or to be more specific; I think most guitar players can only have wet-dreams of playing like this. Skipworth Records has released a real beauty with this one!
By Eduard Credits Mow-zine.com Rating 9,5/10

This US band with a quite complicated name, coming along on a British label was a real surprise to me. I got some MP3s in advance which were already able to create some appetite, and I was really happy to get the promotional copy shortly after that. I listened to this CD over and over again on my summer trip, and it never went boring after all Fodirelifesake know how to create some tension with their music. In detail, this means that these guys bring you really powerful, highly dynamic and slightly metallic hardcore with a real modern sound, but without tending to drift into some to trendy or too weird regions. The songs are always keeping the balance between a good flowing structure and quite complex rythmic figures, maybe this is the missing link between the madness of Converge or early Cave Inn and the harmonic yet dynamic songs of Newborn? Beside some really confronting parts you will surely get your dose of melodies from the guitars in fact, you will get more melodic hooks and bridges than you can deal with, which is truly fantastic! The singer, or better: the singers, as the whole band lends their vocals, are able to throw a song from one mood into another with his voice which varies between screams, spoken words and singing together with the good lyrics this rounds up this nice effort. All this creates 10 highly dynamic and driving songs (including a ballad) between metallic madness, old fashioned harmonies and that newly invented rythmic madness - and should be able to convince people from the most different sektors of hardcore. I got one big complaint not musicwise, but soundwise: If the production would have been better this record would be even better complex songs need a clear sound, which is not available here but hey, this does not make the music worse. The band was supposed to do a big tour over here with Newborn which would have been an almost perfect combination, but as Newborn broke up last months this dreamteam won’t happen. Watch out for this band anyway!
By Phil Credits Poisonfree.com

Lambgoat.com review
By Cory Credits Lambgoat.com

How come it took me so long to discover this awesome hardcore five-piece from the US? Poison The Well, From Autumn To Ashes, For Dire Life Sake - sounds odd to you? You better get used to it!
FDLS play melodic metal-core with occasional acoustic parts. Just like Poison The Well or From Autumn To Ashes they put a lot of heart and feelings in their songs, topped off by emotional lyrics mostly about relationships. In terms of musicianship this band is definitely at the top of their game, especially the guitar melodies are plain breathtaking. The recording quality is not brilliant but decent and the only thing I don’t like are the female guest vocals, compared to the incredible female voice at the end of FATA’s "Short Stories with tragic Endings" this sounds rather dull.
In general a big surprise by a talented and gifted band from the US: Sure, this is not the reinvention of metalcore and I know this genre is starting to wear thin on some people - however, bands like For Dire Life Sake definitely deserve your attention!
By Sebastian @ Allschools.net

FORDIRELIFESAKE are a big surprise to me because I never heard of them before and "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" is just such an awesome record. It hit me totally unexpected and blew me away from the first moment. I really like their combination of metalic hardcore, emotions and melodic guitar lines. Also the album never seems to get boring because all the songs have their own intensity and create kind of a complete picture all together. "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" is an album which I would recommend any fan of bands like SHAI HULUD, ATREYU or DARKEST HOUR.
By Martin @ Liberation Frequency Radio Germany

I'm astonished and faded away, coz this one knocked me down! My personal surprise-highlight of the month.
By Mirko @ 11pm.de

The most amazing album I have heard in a long long time. Just get this cos it is insanely incredible and unique!
By Furyfanzine.co.uk

Interactive Sampler: I've had this 3-track promo for a while now and I must admit I've have been ignoring it for simple reason I had no idea how to describe them, well I guess now is as good a time as any! The only way I can think of describing them is. you know Thursday? You know them emotional screaming sections? Well imagine them screaming vocals with very small areas of melodic singing over similar emo riffs and you're getting warm! (They also remind me of a band called Hamartia that appeared on a Goodlife 4-way split that I reviewed.)
I really haven't done justice to these guys but imagine screamo with a Thursday / At the Drive-in kinda feel. Like what you're imagening???? Then buy the album! (you can bet your life I'm gonna!)
By Harvey @ Kind Online

Das junge britische Skipworth Label äußerte sich im Vorfeld bereits eindeutig: Fordirelifesake sei ihr Schwerpunktthema für 2002 und wenn man sich den Debut-Silberling der Jungs aus Michigan so anhört, dann wird einem schnell beußt, daß dies durchaus berechtigt ist! "Breathing in is only half the function" sagt schon im Namen, daß es auch auf's Ausatmen ankommt. Der Atem der Fordirelifesake-Leute spuckt dabei glühende Kugeln wie eine 48-er Automatik Pistole undzwar im allerfeinsten Hardcore-Punk Mix, dessen Zuordnung in gängige Schubladen verdammt schwer fällt. Über allem schwebt zunächst der chaotische Dampf einer Screamo-Kapelle, doch da, wo JR Ewing oder Kaospilot sich in Stereotypen verhaspeln stampfen FDLS mit einer gewaltigen Wut Wände ein, holen sich Einflüsse von mehr-sängerigem Hardcore Marke Waterdown bis berstendem Punkrock und mischen zu alldem noch eine rockige Sleaze-Gitarren, die den ohnehin schon dicken Sack fast zum Platzen bringen. Beim ersten Durchlauf fallen Song-Enden und -Anfänge gar nicht auf, denn "breathing..." ist ein pausenlos auf mich eintrommelnder Thriller ohne erschnaufmöglichkeiten. Obwohl ich gerne auf einzelne Titel oder ergreifende Passagen eingehen würde ist dies kaum möglich, denn das Hardcore-Gewitter macht eine Orientierung in dem schreienden und kreischenden Dickicht gänzlich unmöglich. Ich staune und falle in Ohnmacht, denn dieser Schlag traf mich unvorbereitet. Mein persönliches Überraschungs-Highlight des Monats!
By Mirko Gläser @ www.11pm.de

It's always a pleasure to receive a record for review especially when it's a band you've never heard of that completely surprises you. I received ForDireLifeSake's new cd and to be quite honest I had about zero interest. Emo-metalcore is just about due for a backlash and I figured these guys were more of the same only with the bias that it'll probably have worse production and be more generic. Well what can I say... when I finally put it in all those prejudices have been punched in the eye...or something. ForDireLifeSake are from Michigan and they do indeed play what could be called 'emo-metal' and "Breathing in is only Half the Function" is a fine example of how it should be played. From the first seconds the listener is engulfed by the frantic and non-stop technical guitar work. It is marked by the Converge-esque all-over-the-place riffiing that makes for a sort of tightly controlled chaos. This band opts for more melody than crunch with their layered hammer riffing and leads that resembles the glam wizardry of a dream theatre more than any of the darker hardcore or metal bands. The best part about that is that none of this is done in an ironic way...it's all tasteful, technical and quite impressive. There are few breaks from this pattern aside from an acoustic or melodic moment here and there...they didn't even forget the "emo" parts. Not just some octave chords while the distortion is off, no, no... real emo parts with real singing that doesn't come off like an afterthought. The breakdowns never resemble a 'mosh part' for more than a few seconds and instead, like most good breakdowns, they give you just enough to tease you and leave you wanting more. The drums and bass play do more than their part as well. Don't worry about guitar-heavy wankery, everything is balanced out nicely. There are plenty of rhythm changes to satisfy anyone who likes to count and is discontent 'straight forward' rhythm. Whether it's the appearance of the recording tape speeding up, a quirky guitar effect, or a slight volume changes there are lots of little elements that make this album more dynamic and give it distinct character. The songs are all of pretty good length and flow nicely from song to song... some might say they are a bit indistinguishable though I don't feel that way even after my limited listens. The vocals are probably the weakest thing about this album though I wouldn't say there is anything bad about them. The majority of the vocals are of the raspy, glass in the throat variety and have a strong resemblance to Dave of Seven Days of Samsara's vocals, which I like very much, in case you happen to be familiar with his delivery. The problem lies in that while the rest of the recording is crisp and up front the vocals don't stand out the way they need to. I really enjoy the female singing and the overlapping non-abrasive male vocals, they do seem to be handled better in the recording. My complaints about this album are few, almost non-existent in fact. Anyone interested in emotive metalcore, or even technical 'chaos-core', should take notice of ForDireLifeSake's most recent offering. You won't be disappointed and even more likely you will be impressed.
By Morty @ www.indieworkshop.com

Die absolute Überraschung des Monats sind für mich FORDIRELIFESAKE. Mit "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" legt die fünfköpfige Band nun ihr Debutalbum vor, welches von Skipworth Records für Europa lizensiert wurde. Geboten wird von der Band bester Metal-Hardcore mit leichtem Emoeinschlag und viel viel Melodie. Was die beiden Gitarristen hier aus ihren Instrumenten herausholen ist wirklich sagenhaft. Hier werden, ähnlich wie bei SHAI HULUD, Melodielinien und kraftvolle Akkorde zu einem dichten Soundteppich verwoben das es eine wahre Freude ist. Angenehm finde ich auch, dass sich auf "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" vieles im Uptempobereich abspielt und das Album dadurch wirklich gut durchläuft und überhaupt nicht schleppend oder ermüdend wird. Der raue Gesang von Sänger Matt wird hier und da immer wieder vom Rest der Band mit schönen Backgroundvocals unterlegt. Außerdem kommt in zwei Songs auch noch eine weibliche Zweitstimme zum Einsatz was mit dem harten Gesang der Hauptstimme wirklich eine schöne Kombination ergibt. Auffällig ist auch, dass das gesamte Album überhaupt keine Pausen zwischen den einzelnen Songs hat und somit ein sich aus den einzelnen Songs zusammensetzendes Gesamtbild entsteht. FORDIRELIFESAKE setzen zum ganz großen Wurf an und punkten auf voller Linie, denn mit "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" gelingt der Band ein verdammt gutes und abwechslungsreiches Debut, dessen sich jeder, der Bands wie SHAI HULUD, ATREYU oder auch DARKEST HOUR mag, auf jeden Fall annehmen sollte. Ich bin jedenfalls absolut begeistert von dieser Band, da wird noch Großes auf uns zukommen!!!
By Martin @ Liberation Frequency Radio Germany

Having toured with the likes of Poison The Well, Walls of Jericho, The Suicide Machines, New Found Glory, Waterdown, Blue Skies Burning, Grade, and Keepsake you can see they've done the rounds already and they've got oceans of possibilities left. It's all in there, the catchiness, the intensity, the lead solos! Walls of Jericho meets Grade, meets Poison The Wells meets Red Roses...etc!
By Ignitiononline.co.uk

This american band already caught my attention when I downloaded a couple of their mp3's. Now they present us their full length CD "Breathing In Is Only Half The Function" on UK's Skipworth Records. I knew what to expect thanks to the mp3's but luckely the bands stays interesting on the complete nine tracks of this cd. Fordirelifesake's music reminds me of a mixture between bands like Poison The Well, Deluge, Drowningman and a little Avenged Sevenfold. The vocals range from screaming to singing, and the music ranges from aggressive and brutal to melodic and introvert. Songs like "10-31-99", "Just A Memory", "Four Letter Lie" and "And Still We Try" are great and make curious about what their upcoming split CD with Deluge will sound like (also on Skipworth Records!). And before I forget to mention it: the artwork looks good too! Take a look at the bands' or the labels' site for more info and mp3's. (Ivar Z.)
By Wmtd.nl

Completely out of nowhere comes this USA band with (I think) their first full-length released on Skipworth from the UK. Great music with clean slowed down parts and as well fast, melodic and metallic Shai Hulud like parts. For sure a nice new band but the only point of critic I have to share with you is the production. The quality is OK but it just doesn’t sound as powerful and explosive as I prefer. Still this is a great release. The combination with the female vocals on two songs is great and the songs are very different from each other and not boring one second. Good worked out structured songs with a lot of variation. To sum it up I suggest that you’ll check out some of their skills at www.skipworthrecords.com and enjoy the music of this great band. I heard that they are going to tour Europe somewhere next year, can’t wait to check them out live. This rocks. (Paco)
By Insideknowledge.net

Frantic, melodic, touching and above all hardcore, Fordirelifesake are the freshest emocore band I've heard since Glassjaw.
By Furyfanzine.com

New US sensation! Think Shai Hulud, earlier Cave In.
By Goodlife Recordings

The brand new debut full-length from Fordirelifesake. Crazy tech metal guitars, with brutal growl vocals, yet melodic as hell. If you have the split with Wafflehouse or the CDep, you know what I mean.
By Assemblylinemusic.com

A great new release on United Kingdom`s Skipworth Records. For me the best band this time on this label. Fordirelifesake is a great young band from Detroit, Michigan USA and they play fantastic great emotional melodic new school metal in the vein of Shai Hulud or Poison The Well, but with a very own style. This masterpiece comes out 1st July 2002!!!!
By Burning Season Records

Agreed that they have some of the most technical song structure (refering to: Kevin Dowd's review). This band has definitely created a type of music really unnameable. With the indie/sweedish black metal feel reminding me of some of In Flames work, the punkish drum beats, the break down bass lines, and the beyond the threshold of screaming, fordirelifesake always seems to surprise me. Every record, every song, gets better and better. Tthe album seems to keep the same pace most of the way through aside the breaking of "Cross My Heart, Hope To Die" this is phenomenal. For the most part it's another cd for the broken hearted. If either really into metalcore, or you're an emo/indie rock kid (whatever you call yourself) this cd is for you. Maybe you can share the same feeling as which I do for the cd.
10/10
By Dave Frazee

Hay, let me tell you about the new fordirelifesake. Justin, the drummer dropped it off at my house yesterday afternoon and ever since i haven't stopped listening to it. It's like one of the most amazing metalcore c.d.'s i've ever heard..no joke. They take mellow, melodies to fast, hardcore punk. but, out of all that, they have some of the most technical songs and song structures, which is something most bands don't do. A definite buy for 8 bones. Pick it up and support them...ya crazy loon.
By Kevin Dowd

FORDIRELIFESAKE
split w/ WAFFLEHOUSE* CD Forge Again Records (2000)

The split starts out with two great songs by Wafflehouse8. I tried to think of bands to describe them, but I really couldn't. The best description I can give you is somewhat of a concoction of Braid, Cap'n Jazz, and The Gloria Record, with a tiny bit of punk influence. The singer has a very cool voice..has a shaky feel (in a good way) to it. Wh* is chaotic but stable indie rock. I really really like the first song by them. These are very well written lyrics too. Intelligent, and with meaning.
Next up is Fordirelifesake. Well, FDLS blew me away. Their combination of black metal, post-hardcore, and punk is so amazing. Technical metal with fast old school hardcore beats. Catchy metal? Yup. Sounds like Lifetime as a metalcore band. This was a great release, and I'm sorry I couldn't think of more to say, but this CD hasn't left my player for some time now. Two amazing bands, plus at the end each band does a cover of the other band, in a medley sort of way. Keep the rock coming.
By Tony Iamurri for iii zine

EXINFERIS / GANESHA
"analyzing" Digipack CD - SKIPW004

In the end of 2001 I got this split CD from Skipworth Records from London,UK. This CD is one of the heaviest I listened in months! Two bands from Luxembourg created together 6 songs full of very darkened deathcore. First band of the split is Exinferis. I saw this band a few months ago during a show near Luxembourg-city and I was very impressed about their overwhelming blasting sound. On this CD they created a same kind of evil sphere.. you can hear some black and deathmetal influences, also hardcore or moshy parts are mixed in their songs.
After few minutes of a horror-movie soundtrack alike 'mid-tro' it's the turn for Ganesha the second band on the split-CD. This band also based in Luxembourg made 3 songs with more hardcore influences. Some really fast dissonant parts with moshy riffing, really cool. The lyrics of both bands (and some in French I can not understand) deal with various personal and emotional subjects which sometimes are a bit dark and depressing just like the music. For pshycho's and people in a suicidall mood, please don't put this CD in your stereo.. I think you will leave the place into a mess.. Brutality on top of it.

KNEEJERK/ABJURE
"Don't Clap It Startles Me" CD - SKIPW003

KNEEJERK:

'Overall very impressive ... damn fine band doing some damn fine stuff.' says the Collective zine.

'Dark emo sound ... I like the vocals a lot. I think they are what make Kneejerk special.' said Dragg zine.

'Excellent riffing, varied vocals...' - Mummy Won't Let Me Have A Mohawk Zine #1.

ABJURE:

Awesome UK split from Kneejerk and Abjure titled "Don't Clap It Startles Me". Touring the UK, sharing stages with bands such as Botch, Cameran, Redlightsflash, Scalplock, Engage, Knuckledust displays how impressive these bands were, playing intense emotional hardcore with desperate delay of Coalesce and the complexity of Botch or Cave In, layering emo parts that compliment perfectly. 2 bands full of awesome musicians and songwriting to match. Raw yet sophisticated.
By Ignitiononline.co.uk

'Abjure have got to be the most exciting UK band ... sounds unbelievable ... the samples are really effective ... the guitar playing is incredible' said MFG zine.

'Nothing short of "wow" ... sounds incredible ... brutal, metallic hardcore, emo and punk fucking rock all at the same time ... Abjure are incredible' loved by Fracture magazine.

'Hold up, hold up! Nail yourself to the seat. Things are about to get a little odd ... Abjure - messing up the UK hardcore scene good and proper.' said the Collective.

'Chaotic, dark, emotional and often melodic ... nice dreamy quiet parts ... the riffs are way cool. Just the way I like it.' said Dragg zine.

'Cool guitar work and crazy ass vocals ... my fave.' said Never Give Up zine.

The Paper said 'Totally uncool.'

17 STITCHES
"Closer Than You Think" CD - SKIPW002

'Super-fuckin'-tastic London hardcore punk ... Absolutely brilliant.' says Fracture magazine.

'Seen this band a few times now and its good to see a release from them that justifies their live show. 7 tracks of Punk Rock with an underlying hardcore feel to it and with the crafty cockney vocals, it’s very reminiscent of stuff I was listening to in 1980-81, and in true Punk Rock style the lyrical content is against everything the 'normal' citizen takes for granted like authority, religion, the police force and the brain dead monotony of conforming. The one thing that stands out about 17 Stitches is the way they fly the flag of unity in the scene, 'SKINHEADS, PUNKERS AND THE HARDCORE POSSE, STAND ASIDE, BESIDE AND UNITE' (double negative). If this is to pave the way for future releases, things can only get better. Hopefully we’ll see a full length offering on the shelves very soon. No favourite tracks as everyone’s a classic. Highly recommended.'
review by Huggy.

ENGAGE
"When Will This End" 7" - SKIPW001

'UK's best kept hardcore secret' said Terrorizer magazine.

'From what I can tell Engage and Imbalance seem to be the two British bands everybody is talking about. Four songs of up-beat melodic hc in vein of Dag Nasty and Turning Point with a twist of that classic Revelation sound. Opening track 'Rebuilding' should be a classic, with it's beautifully melodic instrumental intro and sincere lyrics!' by David from Denmark.

'I recommend it to anyone who likes good music' said Dragg zine.

'Damn this is awesome. All the most beautiful parts of the Revelation roster all blended together' said Fracture zine.