This is the album that metalcore has been waiting for. The album that it deserves. Atlanta, GA’s Issues have delivered a masterpiece with their self-titled album, combining elements of top 40 pop hits, djent guitar stylings, and metalcore screamers. Each song on the album, unlike most metalcore releases in today’s modern scene, have an identity all their own.
Their debut EP, Black Diamonds, only gave fans a taste of what to expect. At the same time, the band hadn’t exactly nailed down their sound. They were still experimenting, trying to figure out who they were. This album proves that they have definitely figured out their sound. Songs like “Mad At Myself”, “Late” and “Stingray Affliction” demonstrate a perfect balance between poppy verses/choruses and chugging breakdowns that would make both Jason Derulo and The Color Morale envious.
“Life Of A Nine” was a personal favorite track of mine, where vocalists Tyler Carter (clean vocals) and Michael Bohn (screaming vocals) trade duties, going off on well-structured rants about a girl that acts like she’s SO much better than every one else (we’ve all been there, right?). The harmonies, screams, and rap elements in the song make it perfection.
The album closes with an emotionally driven bang, on “Disappear (Remember When)”. The end of the song features a full-on gospel choir, singing in harmony with Carter: “Remember when I didn’t need you?/Well I need you now/To hold my head up high/Say it’s all better child/Remember when I was alone and/Crying out/You will be missed/But I know that you’re all better now.” If you don’t get chills, I’m not sure why, but you should sure as hell see someone about that.
This has been another shameless promotion.