All That Remains - Overcome

Published September 22 2008

*=Staff's pick	Before The Damned* Two Weeks Undone* Forever In Your Hands Chiron* Days Without Song For The Hopeless Do Not Obey Relinquish Overcome Believe In Nothing (Nevermore cover)*

Genre	Metalcore	Philip Labonte	Vocals
Tracks	11	Oli Herbert	Guitar
Runningtime	37 Min.	Mike Martin	Guitar
Label	Prosthetic Records	Jeanne Sagan	Bass
Release	16 September 2008	Jason Costa	Drums
Country	USA	-	Keyboard
Similar artists	Into Eternity, Killswitch Engage, Shadows Fall

Phil Labonte and All That Remains have overcome many obstacles, finally attaining their success, so rightfully deserved. In the midst of a myriad of Metalcore bands, All That Remains, are not alone, but they are at the top of their game, and one of my favorites. Their latest indictment serves to up the ante, with incredible vocal histrionics, stellar guitar work, and memorable songs.

Phil's tox-sick vocals are unique and command such presence. He is an awesome front man, with such character and individuation. This ringleader of the word circus must be witnessed live!

This Boston based family remain the catalyst for dark, ardent, passion, promoting mettle's enterprise. With introspective lyrics, a genial stance toward their fanbase, and pure integrity, they will not be undone. If you are not familiar with their melodic, yet rapturous iniative, I strongly encourage you to recognize, as their future is forever in your hands.

Guitarists Oli and Mike continue to dance on the tightrope of boiling leadwork, and rhythmatic interchange. Both guitarist stem from different backgrounds, but meld so well to create majestic whispers and wails. New drummer Jason Costa fits the caste with die-hard dedication.

All songs are well written, and the perfect length, with appropriate harmony solos to seduce. The opener - "Before The Damned" sets in motion the castigating cadence, and champions Phil's Death Metal influences. "Undone" has the potential to be the next "This Calling" with its passion and perseverance. The title track rails with an In Flames meets Trivium bite. The surprise cover of Nevermore's - "Believe In Nothing" is astonishing, and might surpass the original.

Jason Suecof's production values definitely dominate, and one can tell that he wrangled many long hours to achieve that befitting sound. His ideals always follow through.

So all that remains, is for you to add this epoch iron, and/or hardcore purgation to your collection, as you will regret not.

***I was hoping to post this review before the CD was released. Sadly, the storms and hurricanes took their toll on the Midwest. Ohio only suffered the spindrift, but that still decimated our power and electricity for days, putting us all behind.

See also review of: The Fall Of Ideals
See also: interview with Philip Labonte

Performance	Originality	Production	Vocals	Songwriting
8	7,5	8	8,5	7,5

Summary
8 chalices of 10 - Michael the MettleAngel