Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Album Review: The Blackest Beautiful by Letlive.


LA. Post-Hardcore band Letlive. released their much anticipated "The Blackest Beautiful" on July 9th, 2013. This is the bands third LP released since their creation in 2002. Although it took them a decade to finally receive attention from music goers and critics alike, it has paid off in their favor. Their 2011 release "Fake History" displayed some of the most heartfelt lyrics, catchy choruses, and pure raw energy their genre has been lacking for years. While working on their new album they were given the opportunity to tour with veterans and big name bands on the Post-Hardcore scene. They took their techniques from their rowdy independent basement performances and owned the new stages they possessed. Their intensity as a unit sparked attention, while front man Jason Butler's stage antics have showed hints of the raw intensity music greats Daryl Palumbo and Greg Puciato became known for. Now with the band signed to Epitaph Records, they have released what they have told their followers  "...the album you deserve". That is exactly what was given. As a huge fan of "Fake History", I was very curious of what this album what entail for the future of this band. What they did was deliver a pure energy driven album with each member's beating heart heard through each track. Every aspect of this album almost seemed to be on purpose, with no flaws. What may seem like poor production to some, I see as purposeful to highlight the bands roots of being a small club performer. The pure non edited adrenaline you would have gotten at one of their earlier shows is what you are getting on this album. The passion Letlive. has for their music comes across even more sincere with this authentic approach. This is why they are the standout band to release an album this summer. In a time where alternative music has been infected with generic-"ism" this album is breath of fresh air. The lyrics this album contains are beautifully put together to create such relatable and passionate music that should hit a string or two for any listener. Many critics have praised the flow and catchiness in the choruses of "Fake History", "The Blackest Beautiful" does not miss any marks. Depending on your mood you may catch yourself singing lyrics from choruses such as Virgin Dirt. While you'll may have have the catchiness and energy of hooks and choruses such as Younger, The Priest Used Cars, and their first single off the album Banshee - Ghost Fame stuck in you head for hours. One of my favorite aspects of the album is Butler's on and off talking after the musical portion of a track has ended. This gives a more personal tone to the entire album. Almost like a narration right from the creator himself. With all the originality, openness, and creativeness this album has portrayed, I highly recommend this to eager listeners of talent. This can be a huge step in the direction this genre needs to be set in. As fans we have the loudest microphones.

4 Stars out of 4


Side Note: Letlive. is playing the entire of the 2013 Vans Warped Tour. Definitely a moment not to miss!

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