Released: Apr 12, 2011
Genre: Progressive metal, Death metal
Label: Metal Blade Records
Number Of Tracks: 3
The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues is definitely the next chapter into the brilliance that is Between The Buried And Me, and the band is surely still in a league of their own.
The Parallax: Hypersleep DialoguesFeatured review by: UG Team, on april 12, 2011 5 of 11 people found this review helpful
Sound: While Between The Buried And Me’s (BTBAM’s) latest masterpiece, The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues, is only a 3 song EP, each song is still of long length, and the release still clocks in at a half hour. I figured the best way to describe would be to dive into each song in detail. BTBAM has always been quite an unpredictable band as you never know what they’re going to do next. The production is ace, as Grammy Award-winning producer David Bottrill (Tool, King Crimson, Dream Theater, etc.) was at the helm. Interestingly enough the band did not go with the usual Jamie King, but Bottrill [David] sure did put the midas touch on this one. While I felt their last release The Great Misdirect was a slight misstep, I think The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues shows the band back in tip top shape. Musically, I hear elements from each respective BTBAM album, and if you’ve followed BTBAM through their extensive career (now 11 years as a band!), they’ve always expanded their sound while at the same time keeping that signature BTBAM sound. They might not be as straightforward as they used to be, but BTBAM has definitely evolved into one damn fine progressive metal outfit.
01. Specular Reflection: The opening track for The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues starts off with an interesting intro via a symphonic movement that is then bombarded by that distinct, chaotic, and complex BTBAM sound. Fans of the Alaska-era will be able to rejoice, and “Specular Reflection” is filled with crazy drum arrangements, sick time signatures, unique groove, intricate prog moments, and plenty of brutal moments stuck within all the madness. The avant garde interludes remind me of the Colors-era, and “Specular Reflection” is quite the return so far for BTBAM. Man oh man I bet a jam session with these dudes is magic.
02. Augment of Rebirth: Technicality right out of the gate, BTBAM makes a statement with “Augment of Rebirth”. I love the way “Augment of Rebirth” builds up with its brilliant guitar work. Bassist Dan Briggs lays down the law with some sick bass lines, and each respective BTBAM member shines in “Augment of Rebirth”. I even hear some Animosity - Animal-era brutality around the 3 minute mark, which leads into the sounding of the horns. BTBAM even goes pretty far “out there” with some random Mr. Bungle-esque moments, which then they unexpectedly transition with ease into the technical metal juggernaut that they can be. “Augment of Rebirth” is BTBAM collectively at their heaviest on The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues.
03. Lunar Wilderness: The beginning starts off with a nice ambient passage that is very melodic, and the precision of how guitarists Paul Waggoner and Dustie Waring can change pace while sounding so natural is incredible. Sure they’ve been known to do this, but aesthetically, I see “Lunar Wilderness” as one of BTBAM’s best in a while. “Lunar Wilderness” closes on such a memorable and melodic note, and with its calm yet ever so welcoming atmosphere, BTBAM definitely leaves the listener hungry for more. // 9
Lyrics and Singing: Mr. Tommy Rogers is once again at the top of his game. I think his lows sound great like usual, and it is quite incredible when you’ve got a group of such talented musicians that you as the vocalist have to sync your voice to somehow, and Rogers nails every transition with ease. I haven’t heard him this focused in a while. His clean singing in the softer parts isn’t spectacular, but it does get the job done. Lyrically, BTBAM once again goes the extra mile with some deep lyrical concepts. The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues is a two-part story, this EP being part one. Part one introduces 2 human characters separated by millions of light years, and whom are on two totally different planes of existence. Both characters confront similar personal issues, though each makes different decisions given their mindset, and therefore determine the future(s) for both themselves, and for the universe, eternally. Yep, pretty deep concept here, and if you keep the lyrical direction of this album in mind when you’re listening, certain bits and pieces may tie together for you. // 8
Impression: As one of the most creative metal outfits of today, anything BTBAM related is worth a listen. BTBAM has always given listeners a unique and challenging listen, in which more than one full-album spin is mandatory to grasp all the details of their music. Their live performance is just as jaw dropping as their studio magic. Catch them on their upcoming headlining tour with support from Job For A Cowboy, The Ocean, and Cephalic Carnage (on select dates). While it seems a lot of bands today can make some technical / trippy songs, a very select few can ignore the concept of genre, expand metal into unimaginable dimensions, and yet make it sound truly great without making one big sloppy mess. BTBAM is one of the select few. The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues is definitely the next chapter into the brilliance that is BTBAM, and the band is surely still in a league of their own. // 9
The Parallax: Hypersleep Dialogues
Reviewed by:
larrytheguitar, on april 12, 2011 0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Sound: The music of Between the Buried and Me is always a hot subject; many haters, many obsessive lovers, and many who care more about confining them into a specific genre than accept their outstanding versatility. With Hypersleep Dialogues, they still manage to keep it fresh with unforeseen motifs and structures that make non-progmetal enthusiasts scratch their heads. With only 3 tracks included on this extended play, they continue to drift away from the Alaska-y song lengths; the shortest song on the EP is a staggering 8 minutes, with the longest clocking in at a little over 11 minutes.
The first track starts off with some haunting piano banging, followed by sounds you expect to hear from an 80's sci-fi film. In traditional BTBAM fashion, the track kicks into headcrushing riffs, with Tommy Giles' gutteral vocals soaring over the melodies. Slowly, almost lazily, smiles form over the faces of The Great Misdirect haters. Yes, this album contains elements from BTBAM's older work. That said, the maturity heard in The Great Misdirect still remains. As the song drifts to a close, the second, and heaviest, track of the album begins.
Augment of Rebirth is damn good. DAMN good. Despite it's 10 minute song length, it never fails to entertain. The song starts off with brilliant guitar work from Paul Waggoner, pulling off his trademark janitorial duties. The entire first half of the album is very in-your-face, with Silent Circus style riffs found all over the place. The song also features slow, crushing, Gojira-like riffs that they haven't been able to pull off since Alaska (although they were close with Fossil Genera). Around 6 minutes in, the song takes a drastic turn. Yes, that is an accordion you hear, and depending on who you ask, it's either their most genius moment ever, or the most ridiculous thing ever to enter your ear canal. I personally think they pull if off, giving off a really-F'd-up-circus vibe. With a haunting finish, it slides into the final track of the album.
Lunar Wilderness with one giant, whompin' Cynic tribute. From the soothing intro chords, to the fast and proggy alternate picking, to the fretless bass melodies, Lunar Wilderness seems to remind us that BTBAM isn't going anywhere, and they can pretty much do anything and make it sound good. Around 2 minutes in, one of Paul's most impressive solos kicks in. It's no Selkies, but his interesting phrasing and drastically improved legato is definitely something to remember. The middle of the song contains obvious Dream Theater wankery with some keyboard playing, adventurous shredding, and a slow, ballad like close. // 8
Lyrics and Singing: I'm the worst at deciphering lyrics, and I do not have the booklet on me, so I'll focus on the vocals.
When I first heard Between the Buried and Me, one of the biggest turn offs was Thomas Gile's vocals. I don't know what it was, but I found them boring, and... well, fake. And let me tell you this; if you do you like his vocals, then you will not like this vocals on this album. There, I said it. But I personally find his vocals awesome. Why? Well it required a lot of research.
I started watching BTBAM live videos, and saw that Tommy has a much wider range when on stage. I immediately preferred their live performances to their studio albums because of this. It also assured me that Tommy was a bonafide badass live, and I was finally hit with the realization that his vocals were actually pretty brilliant. The fact of the matter is, he is the voice of BTBAM and cannot be replaced. I can't imagine any other vocalist for the job and I don't want to.
That said, nothing drastic has changed on this album. While his screams sound a bit fuller and exhibit a slightly larger range, it's his clean vocals that stand out the most. The production is downright fantastic - David Bottrill should be proud. While nothing is mindblowing, the change IS apparent if you listen closely. // 7
Impression: Hypersleep Dialogues is the epitome of what makes Between the Buried and Me great. They basically took all of the fantastic elements that made them who they are, and added a layer of maturity that one can only posses after years of playing together. That said, I believe that this is only the beginning. Words cannot express how excited I am for them, and cannot wait for the future they have before them. I recall the times when I found Colors to be their peak, and that it can only go downhill from there. Now, seeing them reach up to their full potential, I think they have YET to peak. This EP is definitely one of my favorites of the year so far.
I also apologize if this review seems a little out of place. In all honesty, I'm listening to it for the 10th time while I write this, and it's just as impressive as the first listen. And if that isn't enough to convince you to buy it, I don't know what is.
I like it, but I wish there was a section like the laid back bit in DIM. There's nowhere on this EP for the music to breathe, and I think it suffers as a result of that.
I like it, but I wish there was a section like the laid back bit in DIM. There's nowhere on this EP for the music to breathe, and I think it suffers as a result of that.
This is actually what I've always thought about BTBAM, they drag it on for too long. I love Colors, but the other albums I could never get into, and it's probably because it's too much of an onslaught of noise for me. Still I won't deny their talent or anything, it's just not all for me.
I'd like to apologize for the utter... wrongness of my review; I wish I could go over it. That's what happens when you write a review on the day you listened to it. Didn't let it settle in long.
I'd like to apologize for the utter... wrongness of my review; I wish I could go over it. That's what happens when you write a review on the day you listened to it. Didn't let it settle in long.
Yes, why is there an internet meme in there.. wait I shouldn't complain about that, I do it too.
Reviews aside, I dont see the big deal with this band. They can write some good stuff but bands have done it before, done it better or are doing it better. I wouldn't say its 'too' progressive but they really do drag you along with the songs. I found myself forcing my will to keep listening but in the end this EP just got progressively more dull as I listened.
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
There are some really great moments on this EP though, but once again I've been left with the feeling that it could've been a lot better.
I would have written a review (I've listened to the album dozens of times since getting my preorder rather early) but you guys said a lot of what I wanted, and I would have given all 10s anyway. They deserve it. This is some of their most brilliant work, and that is saying quite a lot. All of BtBaM's qualities--heavy, progressive, beautiful, weird--are at their most extreme.
The main criticism I see against them is that they jump around without sticking on one musical idea long enough. That's not a negative to me. Each track is much more like a journey or exploration than a traditional song and I always look forward to what they will do next. It kept me hooked the whole way through, especially the awesome lyrics, which are still keeping me thinking.
This album also restores what made Colors great, but The Great Misdirect somewhat lacked: those moments where everything coalesces from the chaos and just comes together so beautifully. The chorus of Specular Reflection, the reprise of the "chicken part" in Augment of Rebirth, and the outro of Lunar Wilderness, to name a few.
No band does it better. Between the Buried and Me are winning music.
BenRaah wrote:
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
I think I've heard this paragraph somewhere before
BenRaah wrote:
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
I think I've heard this paragraph somewhere before
I've seen you post something similar a few times and agreed, so I thought I'd 'borrow' it
I would have written a review (I've listened to the album dozens of times since getting my preorder rather early) but you guys said a lot of what I wanted, and I would have given all 10s anyway. They deserve it. This is some of their most brilliant work, and that is saying quite a lot. All of BtBaM's qualities--heavy, progressive, beautiful, weird--are at their most extreme.
The main criticism I see against them is that they jump around without sticking on one musical idea long enough. That's not a negative to me. Each track is much more like a journey or exploration than a traditional song and I always look forward to what they will do next. It kept me hooked the whole way through, especially the awesome lyrics, which are still keeping me thinking.
This album also restores what made Colors great, but The Great Misdirect somewhat lacked: those moments where everything coalesces from the chaos and just comes together so beautifully. The chorus of Specular Reflection, the reprise of the "chicken part" in Augment of Rebirth, and the outro of Lunar Wilderness, to name a few.
No band does it better. Between the Buried and Me are winning music.
This is a step up from Great Misdirect. Definitely a great way to spend half an hour of your day. Can't wait for the second half of this, it'd be nice to see a more "mellow" side. Hypersleep Dialogues goes hard.
buy this record
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
There are some really great moments on this EP though, but once again I've been left with the feeling that it could've been a lot better.
Part of being progressive is changing up time signatures and flowing through it all smoothly. They definitely flow perfectly through many time sig's....and tempo changes.
SO have they gotten rid of most of the (to me) repetitive death metal parts and focused a lot more on there clean nice sounding parts yet? If not then I probably won't check this out. Don't get me wrong, I love death metal, but every time they break into a heavy part it sounds like White Walls to me.
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
I assume you meant "thoroughly composed?" Pretty sure taking your time to write epic songs isn't the simplest way to go about. And they aren't progressive? Do explain.
Can't wait to get this record. Fuck going to psych, off to the record store.
And I can see what people mean by them not being "progressive". Their stuff is more like a constantly moving platform that never quite returns to a riff (yes there are exceptions, let us not nitpick. Certain short melodic themes come back, but the same riff is practically never heard twice). It is more as if they composed a shit-ton of riffs and threw them together with filthy (in a good way) transitions, instead of taking the time signatures and making them their own. With stuff like Tool and King Crimson and Mars Volta, the changing tempos, time signatures, keys, and modes are all integrated into the piece, whereas there is no integration, just a loose conglomeration of riffs that fit together (I felt like I needed more parentheses since I already used them a buttload, so here is parenthetical statement #3, with no significance).
Can't wait to get this record. Fuck going to psych, off to the record store.
And I can see what people mean by them not being "progressive". Their stuff is more like a constantly moving platform that never quite returns to a riff (yes there are exceptions, let us not nitpick. Certain short melodic themes come back, but the same riff is practically never heard twice). It is more as if they composed a shit-ton of riffs and threw them together with filthy (in a good way) transitions, instead of taking the time signatures and making them their own. With stuff like Tool and King Crimson and Mars Volta, the changing tempos, time signatures, keys, and modes are all integrated into the piece, whereas there is no integration, just a loose conglomeration of riffs that fit together (I felt like I needed more parentheses since I already used them a buttload, so here is parenthetical statement #3, with no significance).
And that is what makes them progressive :] They think outside of the box and do it totallly unorthodox making it something wildly unique. In my opinion, that for one is a showcase of prog.
SO have they gotten rid of most of the (to me) repetitive death metal parts and focused a lot more on there clean nice sounding parts yet? If not then I probably won't check this out. Don't get me wrong, I love death metal, but every time they break into a heavy part it sounds like White Walls to me.
Couldn't agree more. They really are a brilliant band, but the chugga chugga breakdowns they throw in are kinda like seeing an upscale Renaissance man at a cocktail party taking a shit on the table. It's like, "dude, you're so well-composed and refined, why are you doing this?"
Set myself up for getting flamed but I will speak the truth. Does not begin to compare to Alaska or Colors. "but this is their new artistic direction and they don't want to repeat themselves and you are an uneducated pussy fag" blahblahblah. This band is capable of better than this. I'm that guy and I don't care. I don't have to be objective. This is not that great. Colors is a work of art. Great Misdirect was not. This band is good but is not living up to their potential. They are FAR more than a metal band. I hope that they embrace this on future recordings but I guarantee that they don't give a rats ass about what I say.
album blows, complete Tool rip-off in the first song, abysmal production and guitar tone, every riff sounds recycled from previous efforts. All of you fans are complete tools.
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
I assume you meant "thoroughly composed?" Pretty sure taking your time to write epic songs isn't the simplest way to go about. And they aren't progressive? Do explain.
Nope, I definitely meant through composed, which isn't necessarily any more time-consuming than elaborating on the traditional popular song form. Take 'Cygnus... Vismund Cygnus' by The Mars Volta; it's based around the standard verse/chorus/verse/chorus/bridge/chorus structure, but by exploring the boundaries of that structure, they managed to write an 'epic song' just like btbam do. It's just a different compositional method.
My comments weren't meant in a negative way, I just disagree that they are progressive in the way that a lot of bands were in the late sixties and seventies, mostly because more stuff has been explored now than it had been then.
I do actually really like btbam by the way, and I think too many people use the word progressive as a synonym for 'good'. It's just another redundant musical pigeonhole, a bit like post rock.
Ugh. Why doesn't this site just have a banner on the home page declaring these guys the best band ever? I admit they're talented, but perhaps a bit overhyped on this site. Not everything they release is a masterpiece.
Btbam aren't really progressive at all, not that the term really means much anymore. Most of their stuff is just through-composed, which is pretty much the simplest way of writing.
I assume you meant "thoroughly composed?" Pretty sure taking your time to write epic songs isn't the simplest way to go about. And they aren't progressive? Do explain.
Nope, I definitely meant through composed, which isn't necessarily any more time-consuming than elaborating on the traditional popular song form. Take 'Cygnus... Vismund Cygnus' by The Mars Volta; it's based around the standard verse/chorus/verse/chorus/bridge/chorus structure, but by exploring the boundaries of that structure, they managed to write an 'epic song' just like btbam do. It's just a different compositional method.
My comments weren't meant in a negative way, I just disagree that they are progressive in the way that a lot of bands were in the late sixties and seventies, mostly because more stuff has been explored now than it had been then.
I do actually really like btbam by the way, and I think too many people use the word progressive as a synonym for 'good'. It's just another redundant musical pigeonhole, a bit like post rock.
Love mars volta! I hear you loud and clear man. I do agree with the pigeon hole thing. When I think of prog i just think outside of the box. Btbam does that in my opinion as does mars volta. The music scene is fairly saturated with fake "prog" bands these days so I agree, the term has kind of lost it's meaning.
SO have they gotten rid of most of the (to me) repetitive death metal parts and focused a lot more on there clean nice sounding parts yet? If not then I probably won't check this out. Don't get me wrong, I love death metal, but every time they break into a heavy part it sounds like White Walls to me.
Couldn't agree more. They really are a brilliant band, but the chugga chugga breakdowns they throw in are kinda like seeing an upscale Renaissance man at a cocktail party taking a shit on the table. It's like, "dude, you're so well-composed and refined, why are you doing this?"
Lol I agree. They suck ass at "metal". They are good at stealing from blues, folk, jazz, and classical. Interjecting stolen parts in between their very generic hardcore riffs. They have instrumental talent, and are interesting to listen to.. but all their music is just a frankenstien mashing of blatantly ripped off famous riffs and generic hardcore.
im not trying to convince everyone that btbam is progressive or not, i could care less whether they even were prog or not i still like them. but they're progressive in the sense that they think outside of the box and that's what progressive is. prog isn't changing time signatures or tempo like it's usually mistaken to be.
No need to call people tools just because they happen to like something that you don't, though.
Oh yes there is a need, this EP is horrendous and the worst thing they've ever done, parts that would have been enjoyable by themselves were completely overshadowed by the shitstorm of awful music and hilariously awful quirky patton rippoffs
No need to call people tools just because they happen to like something that you don't, though.
Oh yes there is a need, this EP is horrendous and the worst thing they've ever done, parts that would have been enjoyable by themselves were completely overshadowed by the shitstorm of awful music and hilariously awful quirky patton rippoffs
No need to call people tools just because they happen to like something that you don't, though.
Oh yes there is a need, this EP is horrendous and the worst thing they've ever done, parts that would have been enjoyable by themselves were completely overshadowed by the shitstorm of awful music and hilariously awful quirky patton rippoffs
You, sir, are the tool here. Fuck off and don't be a dick just because people like different music than you.
On a relevant note, this is an OK effort, but I'd like to see a little more variation and such throughout as I did find myself getting kind of bored. Hopefully, as an EP, it's just a prelude to something better. Love the lyrics, though. Extremely interesting concepts.
They are good at stealing from blues, folk, jazz, and classical. Interjecting stolen parts in between their very generic hardcore riffs. They have instrumental talent, and are interesting to listen to.. but all their music is just a frankenstien mashing of blatantly ripped off famous riffs and generic hardcore.[/quote]
Haha, uhm. Please elaborate on how they blatantly rip of famous riffs. They are hardly generic hardcore as well. I'm not trying to jump on anyone here, and I'm cool if you don't like the band, but saying shit like this is totally uncalled for. Especially since it isn't true. I am more worried about what songs they have ripped off from other bands than how much you dislike them. So please, let me know what the deal is man, i'm uber curious.
How has a progressive band managed to put out 3 almost identical records? Colors was amazing and I do think they're talented but I just can't get into it :\
Jesus christ. I just got the album in the mail. The intro to Augment of Rebirth is FUCKING ridiculous! Also have to give mad props to blake on the drumming for this album. Some of these parts hold strong against Chris Penny. 9/10 for this bad boy.
The whole blending of styles worked really well on colors. I get it. The horse is dead and they still proceed to beat the unholy bejesus out of it. I guess the thought process is if you can't do sweeps then you aren't a good guitar player. If you can't molest every genre of music to prove that you can, then you aren't a good band. If every song besides the intro isn't at least 9 minutes long you aren't prog and are a sellout biotch. Is prog slang for pretentious fans or pretentious band? Cheers!!
I guess the thought process is if you can't do sweeps then you aren't a good guitar player. If you can't molest every genre of music to prove that you can, then you aren't a good band. If every song besides the intro isn't at least 9 minutes long you aren't prog and are a sellout biotch. Is prog slang for pretentious fans or pretentious band? Cheers!!
The whole blending of styles worked really well on colors. I get it. The horse is dead and they still proceed to beat the unholy bejesus out of it. I guess the thought process is if you can't do sweeps then you aren't a good guitar player. If you can't molest every genre of music to prove that you can, then you aren't a good band. If every song besides the intro isn't at least 9 minutes long you aren't prog and are a sellout biotch. Is prog slang for pretentious fans or pretentious band? Cheers!!
The whole blending of styles worked really well on colors. I get it. The horse is dead and they still proceed to beat the unholy bejesus out of it. I guess the thought process is if you can't do sweeps then you aren't a good guitar player. If you can't molest every genre of music to prove that you can, then you aren't a good band. If every song besides the intro isn't at least 9 minutes long you aren't prog and are a sellout biotch. Is prog slang for pretentious fans or pretentious band? Cheers!!
Sorry man. I'll tell them to stick to strictly death metal from now on
rictazero
You, sir, are the tool here. Fuck off and don't be a dick just because people like different music than you.
On a relevant note, this is an OK effort, but I'd like to see a little more variation and such throughout as I did find myself getting kind of bored. Hopefully, as an EP, it's just a prelude to something better. Love the lyrics, though. Extremely interesting concepts.
You clearly have no idea what tool actually means. I give multiple very valid reasons to withstand my opinion and all you can come up with is "if you dont like the music, dont comment!!"
Have you ever heard of criticism or are you so embedded in your insecurities that you cannot bear people not liking what you like ?
The most overrated band to every come into excistence
Kinda true, there's better prog and better metal. Its as if Cynic gave up being underdogs and just went full on commercial because it was ''''new'''' and ''''interesting'''.
I heard some of the album on YouTube, sounds great..too bad my pre-order still hasn't come in yet.
Now let me say something: one thing this comment section has taught me is that BTBAM are getting popular. You know you getting there when you get all these losers hate on you for no reason other than to hate.
If you don't like a band, why click on the review? Are you that pathetic that you waste your time trolling on an internet message board? Grow the hell up.
I love BTBAM but yeah they really do need to change it up a bit...
I mean, this album wasn't bad but it really did sound just like Colors and The Great Misdirect.
Hopefully we'll see them put out something a bit different with the full-length.
The most overrated band to every come into excistence
..Really? I like BTBAM, I'm not sucking on anyone's dick or anything about it either. Colors was sweet, and the Great Misdirect was the same thing, just done better. I've not heard this yet, but I get confused when people hate. Why bother? No it's not "new" and it's not "prog" and it's not this or that, but it's pretty good, and it sounds different than most crap out there today. (Different doesn't always equal good, but it usually equals interesting)
I could name about 100 bands that are more overrated, off the top of my head. Just read the comments, I'd say they're pretty evenly divided between positive and negative. How is that overrated?
You clearly have no idea what tool actually means. I give multiple very valid reasons to withstand my opinion and all you can come up with is "if you dont like the music, dont comment!!"
Have you ever heard of criticism or are you so embedded in your insecurities that you cannot bear people not liking what you like ?
that's not criticism, you're just blatantly calling people tools for not liking the same music as you. what VALID reasons are you talking about? you just keeping saying how much you hate the band and that their fans are tools. grow the **** up, what are you 12?
The whole blending of styles worked really well on colors. I get it. The horse is dead and they still proceed to beat the unholy bejesus out of it. I guess the thought process is if you can't do sweeps then you aren't a good guitar player. If you can't molest every genre of music to prove that you can, then you aren't a good band. If every song besides the intro isn't at least 9 minutes long you aren't prog and are a sellout biotch. Is prog slang for pretentious fans or pretentious band? Cheers!!
It may be true they haven't changed up their formula in a while... but I'm not nearly sick of it yet. Keep going! These guys are going to be around for a LOOONG time, there's sure to be many twists along the way but I'm content to just enjoy the ride even if not every detour is revolutionary. Hey, that kind of describes their music too.
Even if only one person reads this, I just want to know why people see TGM as a sidestep? It was f'ing fantastic and as good as colors in my view.
I'm not being a fanboy, but I just find TGM had a new level of balance throughout it. Songs like Desert Of Song followed by Swim To The Moon, just broad and versatile in their composing.
Even if only one person reads this, I just want to know why people see TGM as a sidestep? It was f'ing fantastic and as good as colors in my view.
I'm not being a fanboy, but I just find TGM had a new level of balance throughout it. Songs like Desert Of Song followed by Swim To The Moon, just broad and versatile in their composing.
i totally agree TGM is great. disease injury madness is probably my fave btbam song and just all the other songs are on par.
The most overrated band to every come into excistence
Kinda true, there's better prog and better metal. Its as if Cynic gave up being underdogs and just went full on commercial because it was ''''new'''' and ''''interesting'''.
I don't feel this band overrated at all
Its just UG, they are always there to kiss BTBAM in the ass for everything they do
I love this band but I understand everybody that thinks the opposite... and I saw many on other places than UG.
Remember that most of the users are guitar freaks
Why are people so over-critical of BTBAM? It's insane. Everyone seems to hold them to a much higher standard than they do with any other band. This EP is a triumph in progressive metal, as is nearly everything BTBAM have ever produced. No other band in the world could produce an EP like this in terms of musicianship, lyricism and composition.
BTBAM just constantly get held to a standard that's impossible to reach. They release a killer album like Alaska and all their fans do is complain about the sound production. It pisses me off; I'm surprised these guys find the motivation to bother making music anymore.
this is a great album...been listening to it all day long. really good stuff. loving the new tones they're getting with the axe fx. btbam held the crown as my fave band for years until periphery came around, but i still love them.
Even if only one person reads this, I just want to know why people see TGM as a sidestep? It was f'ing fantastic and as good as colors in my view.
I'm not being a fanboy, but I just find TGM had a new level of balance throughout it. Songs like Desert Of Song followed by Swim To The Moon, just broad and versatile in their composing.
+1, I thought TGM was a better version of Colors, actually. Colors was, rah rah rah bland metal, prog, rah rah rah bland metal, prog, etc. TGM, in my opinion, actually did some interesting things as a metal album. Colors was good too, but a step below for me.
$hab wrote:
Why are people so over-critical of BTBAM? It's insane. Everyone seems to hold them to a much higher standard than they do with any other band. This EP is a triumph in progressive metal, as is nearly everything BTBAM have ever produced. No other band in the world could produce an EP like this in terms of musicianship, lyricism and composition.
BTBAM just constantly get held to a standard that's impossible to reach. They release a killer album like Alaska and all their fans do is complain about the sound production. It pisses me off; I'm surprised these guys find the motivation to bother making music anymore.
I think some people just commonly don't like their music. At the same time, there are a lot of people who hate them for going "mainstream" and "commercial." Hey everyone has their own view, right?
you must have a bad case of diarrhea in the ears, listen to that song again and tell me there isn't a blatant tool rip-off./quote]
you must have a bad case of diarrhea in the brain if you think anything btbam has ever done sounds like tool.
I have been listening to Between The Buried and Me since their self titled album, when they had such bad production, they sounded like garbage. Maybe I'm biased then, but you haters blew my mind. Ripping off famous riffs? Not progressive? Everything sounds the same? I don't even know what to say. Not to mention their bassist is a musical genius, or that their drummer is a monster, or that their vocalist actually has RANGE! Not just a high, low, high high low, like Suicide Silence or all those other bullshit bands. And please, someone tell me that Paul and Dustie have no talent in guitar. The best, most technically challenging, difficult timing riffs I know are from these guys. They are in a genre all of their own and are completely untouchable for what they have done. Name one ****ing band that can do a crushing/sweeping/tech riff like the intro to the song "Alaska", and then do a hillbilly breakdown like the one in the end of "Ants of the Sky". All they have done is progress in sound, talent, and technique, only pushing things farther with lyrical concepts, musical structure, and timing. Most people can't even play their shit because its so ****ing intricate. Yes, their last three albums sound roughly the same, but where did you expect them to go after Colors? How does one top, perfection? So what that their songs are long as ****, I bet shitty bands like Suicide Silence and Asking Alexandria (garbage) wish they had enough TALENT to make songs that could go that long and not get boring. Progressive = Not doing the ****ing bullshit every other metal band is doing, doing crazy shit but making it sound good. Thats BTBAM. You're just mad that they have more talent in their toe nail clippings than you could ever dream of having. Listen to Colors all the way through, and tell me you're insides didn't drop out of your ass afterwards. Thank you.
I'm just curious as to how you think BTBAM sounds like Tool. Listening to any song from both bands should be proof enough that they sound nothing like each other.
Ok, they don't sound anything alike. What more do you want us to say? Maybe that Tool's music actually always sounds characteristically the same while BTBAM has produced maybe two songs that sound almost like each other and everything else is just nuts-off-the-wall different. And seriously, how can you just listen to the first song and say the entire ep is a tool-ripoff...if tool could play the first note of Augment of Rebirth I'd castrate myself.
Not to mention they took an ultimate masterpiece, Cemetary Gates by Pantera and made it even better. I bet Dime would've ****ing cried if he heard how clean they made it sound and how much life they brought to it. That song alone shows that they know what they hell they are doing, and that they aren't going anywhere. Poo in the faces of haters, and come back to Utah you ****s. I buy way too much merch for you guys to skip Utah for the 3rd year in a row.
I have been listening to Between The Buried and Me since their self titled album, when they had such bad production, they sounded like garbage. Maybe I'm biased then, but you haters blew my mind. Ripping off famous riffs? Not progressive? Everything sounds the same? I don't even know what to say. Not to mention their bassist is a musical genius, or that their drummer is a monster, or that their vocalist actually has RANGE! Not just a high, low, high high low, like Suicide Silence or all those other bullshit bands. And please, someone tell me that Paul and Dustie have no talent in guitar. The best, most technically challenging, difficult timing riffs I know are from these guys. They are in a genre all of their own and are completely untouchable for what they have done. Name one ****ing band that can do a crushing/sweeping/tech riff like the intro to the song "Alaska", and then do a hillbilly breakdown like the one in the end of "Ants of the Sky". All they have done is progress in sound, talent, and technique, only pushing things farther with lyrical concepts, musical structure, and timing. Most people can't even play their shit because its so ****ing intricate. Yes, their last three albums sound roughly the same, but where did you expect them to go after Colors? How does one top, perfection? So what that their songs are long as ****, I bet shitty bands like Suicide Silence and Asking Alexandria (garbage) wish they had enough TALENT to make songs that could go that long and not get boring. Progressive = Not doing the ****ing bullshit every other metal band is doing, doing crazy shit but making it sound good. Thats BTBAM. You're just mad that they have more talent in their toe nail clippings than you could ever dream of having. Listen to Colors all the way through, and tell me you're insides didn't drop out of your ass afterwards. Thank you.
You deserve a massive hug and free fancy dinner paid for by me. Everything about this statement is win. +1
i had a listen to some of the songs from the EP, and it just lost me, the progressive aspect just kind of made the songs fall to bits, maybe it is 2prog4me, but i dunno.
One good thing i did find was that a few of the riffs i heard were great, they had this real melodic feel to them in a metal way.
The bad part was listening to the vocalist go from growls to puny pop punk vocals, i think he'd be so much better if his clean voice had more punch to it.
Why does everyone hate on The Great Misdirect? Have yall not heard Swim to the Moon?
I liked Swim to the Moon, all the solos they threw in at the last 5 minutes, but the problem was, they seemed to recycle the same riff for most of the song.
Septomor wrote:
Ok, they don't sound anything alike. What more do you want us to say? Maybe that Tool's music actually always sounds characteristically the same while BTBAM has produced maybe two songs that sound almost like each other and everything else is just nuts-off-the-wall different. And seriously, how can you just listen to the first song and say the entire ep is a tool-ripoff...if tool could play the first note of Augment of Rebirth I'd castrate myself.
Hahaha holy hell, you kids must have a combination of dyslexia and down's, I swear. I gave a specific time frame where the tool ripoff is placed, I never said BTBAM sounds anything like Tool and I never said that the entire EP is a tool rip-off.
Lion_Slicer wrote:
It's there, it's just not spoon-fed to you. Though I'm not going to judge people who prefer music that is predictable and unchallenging.
It really isn't there. Absolutely no relation between the sections whatsoever. What do the "death metal" parts in Selkies do? Nothing, that's what.
People don't like BTBAM. Get over that.
Why does music have to be challenging to be enjoyable? So decapitated, Opeth, Neurosis, Tool are all bands that have established their own sound and they own it. They are not predictable nor unchallenging. Don't confuse your short attention span for relevance and coherence.
I liked Swim to the Moon, all the solos they threw in at the last 5 minutes, but the problem was, they seemed to recycle the same riff for most of the song.
That was the thing that was good to me. They took the riff at it's most basic form and gradually built upon it throughout the song, adding more to it and building it to a much bigger form of itself. They 'progressed' it, for lack of a better word.
napsterfire wrote:
People don't like BTBAM. Get over that.
Why does music have to be challenging to be enjoyable? So decapitated, Opeth, Neurosis, Tool are all bands that have established their own sound and they own it. They are not predictable nor unchallenging. Don't confuse your short attention span for relevance and coherence.
I don't mind all that much, it's just that a few of you guys seem personally insulted by their popularity and I don't get that. I said I don't judge, so it doesn't HAVE to be challenging (which I meant from a listening perspective, not just technicality) I just usually prefer it that way. Subjectivity. Lots of my favorite bands aren't though.
Coherence--their style strikes me as a musical version of the novel Catch-22, confusing and scrambled but not necessarily disorganized. They don't repeat riffs so much as reference and contort them several minutes later, actually requiring a LONG, detail-oriented attention span. Relevance--BTBAM is always relevant. Though I love every band you named. Maybe we'll be on the same side come Opeth's next album.
Never compare this band with anything that Joseph Heller is involved with again. And yeah, BTBAM are good, but this seems like a "Hey we just got signed to metalblade so lets put out an ep to show everyone our new label." At least you didn't say they played cemetery gates better than dimebag. That guy needs his ass whipped.
I liked Swim to the Moon, all the solos they threw in at the last 5 minutes, but the problem was, they seemed to recycle the same riff for most of the song.
That was the thing that was good to me. They took the riff at it's most basic form and gradually built upon it throughout the song, adding more to it and building it to a much bigger form of itself. They 'progressed' it, for lack of a better word.
So...which of the four hundred riffs in the first three minutes of Swim to the Moon are you talking about? lol
Seriously let's just call BTBAM' music post-prog. In that category, I'd also put Protest the Hero, some of Opeth stuff, some Porcupine Tree, etc. Every band that doesn't follow the intro/verse/chorus/verse/chorus/solo/chorus/outro.
Seriously let's just call BTBAM' music post-prog. In that category, I'd also put Protest the Hero, some of Opeth stuff, some Porcupine Tree, etc. Every band that doesn't follow the intro/verse/chorus/verse/chorus/solo/chorus/outro.
so if I write a 3 chord song that doesn't follow above mentioned format then I can be post prog right? BRILLIANT
Never compare this band with anything that Joseph Heller is involved with again. And yeah, BTBAM are good, but this seems like a "Hey we just got signed to metalblade so lets put out an ep to show everyone our new label." At least you didn't say they played cemetery gates better than dimebag. That guy needs his ass whipped.
BTBAM don't own any of their other albums anymore, Victory takes the rights to anything anyone records with them. So this is the first piece of music they've recorded that they will own the rights to. and probably the first release they can fit into a festival show if they're not so high up
I think the album is great. It's got the feel of colors, but the brutality of Alaska and the Silent Circus. On top of that it has the technicality of The Great Misdirect. I can't wait to go see them in concert again.
I think napsterfire and The Wild Child have been hanging around this comment section for too long...Who, in their right mind, spends all their time trying to convince people that the band they like is shit? What's your problem??
At least BTBAM are a bunch of normal guys just trying to push boundaries in their genre, and not focusing half their efforts on promoting a gay-ass gothic image like Opeth.
And yeah, BTBAM are good, but this seems like a "Hey we just got signed to metalblade so lets put out an ep to show everyone our new label."
Who says shit like this? You are the whiniest guy I have ever had the opportunity to speak to on a thread. They put out an album, yes. They just signed to metalblade as well, yes. How exactly is putting out an album on their new record label them trying to show off?
I'm not trying to be a troll like Napsterfire, and all the other haters, but let me rectify what I said. I never said, they did it better than Dime bag. Obviously, because he ****ing wrote Cemetary Gates, Dumbass. I said that Dime would've ****ing cried if he heard the life they brought to that song. Listen to his poorly yet astonishing solo on Cemetary Gates, and then listen how BTBAM cleaned it up and played it. Can you honestly say Dime would've been disappointed in his cover? Whip my ass man, but I'm standing by what I say. They know what they are doing, and referring to what ProgJazzMath said, seriously? Lets show off by putting out an EP on our new label. Dumbass. Thats what they are supposed to do! You don't go to a new label and wait two ****ing years to release something. Obviously, that kid is ****ing brain dead. I pray for you my son. Listen to Lunar Wilderness and maybe it'll show you the path to enlightenment.
Not to mention, their EP, is as long as normal bands full length albums. But you're right. Thats not talent or progressive. That's unorginality. Hahaha. I had more faith in human intelligence, but Napsterfire ruined it for everyone. Congrats!!
so wait,
because I know the technical aspect of their performance is just a novelty, and once you look past the 'shiny' aesthetics of the piece, its clear that there is no relevancy between the riffs. Rather, everything is set up in a carnival gimmick fashion, seeming to cater to listeners with ADD. Whats worse is how you guys like to get on a high horse about it all since its flashy material.
and I reiterate, progressive is a concept, not a sound. Nothing Boy To Boy Ass Munchers does is progressive by any means.
so wait,
because I know the technical aspect of their performance is just a novelty, and once you look past the 'shiny' aesthetics of the piece, its clear that there is no relevancy between the riffs. Rather, everything is set up in a carnival gimmick fashion, seeming to cater to listeners with ADD. Whats worse is how you guys like to get on a high horse about it all since its flashy material.
and I reiterate, progressive is a concept, not a sound. Nothing Boy To Boy Ass Munchers does is progressive by any means.
Haha, dude from the things you say, previous comments and that pedo mustache i can tell you are just another pretentious hipster *******. Can I offer you a PBR and a coupon to the nearest thrift shop? I've seen your posts on other articles and threads, all you do is troll. I'll give you this much; you are quite the accomplished one.
bravo. You found me out. I like to listen to BTBAM ironically. I wish they recorded on a 4 track though, the polished music doesn't give off a vintage vibe.
Can I at least join you guys and circle jerk mediocrity such as BTBAM?
Meh. I like these guys. I don't like the way too "we love you BTBAM, make love to us BTBAM" review. They aren't the greatest band to grace music, Hell, they bored me live, but their skill as musicians is unquestionable. Are there only absolutes when it comes to these guys? I don't love or hate them, but I'm sure the rabid will say that because I am not drooling over an EP that I am most certainly a hater. Meh, I liked the First 2 songs, the last one, it was ok. I'll give it a few listens to see if it grows on me.
Personally i'm looking forward to the album more, as it feels like they tried to cram everything they're about into half an hour. There's not that many instrumental parts to break up the vocal sections, which are all over very busy musical sections.
Most of the guitar work doesn't seem to stand out much either as it's primarily palm muted and played too fast to be audible. It kind of annoyed me as it felt like I was being pushed into the next riff or the next dissonant part without getting time to reflect or get used to it. I'm a reasonably big fan of BTBAM but this felt like a disjointed mess at times.
Lion_Slicer wrote:
It's there, it's just not spoon-fed to you. Though I'm not going to judge people who prefer music that is predictable and unchallenging.
It really isn't there. Absolutely no relation between the sections whatsoever. What do the "death metal" parts in Selkies do? Nothing, that's what.
Just gonna point out the whole irony of that little section of posts.
Also, on further listening, its still overrated. Maybe its because I'm listening to Shinings 'Blackjazz' (Norways Shining, not Swedens Shining) and everything else seems fairly rubbish now... 21ST CENTURY, SCHIZOID MAAAAAN. Awesome cover..
I, like several others posting here, do not understand the dislike of The Great Misdirect. There seems to be an unconscious connection that drives everyone to praise Colors. I don't get it. I've never really heard any points or reasons on what it is that makes it better... my best guess is that the majority of fans became hooked on the band by hearing Colors first. That's it.
As for the EP: Having heard their other releases makes a big difference here i think. If this was my first BTBAM hearing, I probably would've been pretty excited. But this isn't the case.
The production was a downgrade. That was the first turn off for me. Other than "here-and-there" riffs, alot of it seemed rehashed. They get heavy only once on the album imo, and it lasts for about 12 seconds. Tommy seems to be screaming over everything... maybe he had a surplus of lyrics due to his topic but it's another turn off for me. In relation to that, there are fewer stand-out or solo spots for the instruments.
Maybe this release was, as someone previously said, a rushed attempt to get a release out due to the record company change.
I love BTBAM one of my all time fav bands. The production does seem a little less to there standard and the song structure a little messy. I too am looking foward to a full album production. Can only hope we get something like Colous my fav album of all time,
...Wow. This whole section just fell into trolling. Awesome. Can't wait for the next part of this album ;D
I liked it. Unlike most people, I actually thought it was a step away from Colors/TGM. Whereas those two really tempered themselves with the mixed genres, this thing just tied together like 25 30-second songs into one. I think we're headed for an album with 20 genres in each song - and very little 'metal' at all - and a 0 coherency meter.
Maybe if UG gives it a bad review all the trolls will have sex with it.
I heard one song off of colors when I first got into them and thought it was crap. A friend showed me the song Alaska and I was hooked, So I then proceeded to download the rest of their discography. I've been in love with them like an addict with a miles worth of lines ever since. But unlike the addict I know when to say enough is enough. So this is a pretty boss EP but clearly the Foo Fighters win album of the Year.
Hate me if you will. But thats the gospel braaasssss.
I like this. The Great Misdirect was good but not exactly a "go to" album when I'm just looking for something downright good to listen to. A lot of people groan about them dragging on some riffs and I'll admit there are riffs they have created that I'm not really all that interested in but I just really don't feel that way about this EP. In my opinion the vocals are the best EVER for BTBAM. I'm sure I'll enjoy this for the next few months
Ugh. Why doesn't this site just have a banner on the home page declaring these guys the best band ever? I admit they're talented, but perhaps a bit overhyped on this site. Not everything they release is a masterpiece.
*glances at The Great Misdirect*
Agreed.
Colors, on the other hand... sooo great.
I'm not really sure how I feel about this album so far... At the very least, I like it, but then again, I liked TGM the first time around too. (It's still good, but I find much of it too cheesy and would rather listen to other stuffs)
I heard one song off of colors when I first got into them and thought it was crap. A friend showed me the song Alaska and I was hooked, So I then proceeded to download the rest of their discography. I've been in love with them like an addict with a miles worth of lines ever since. But unlike the addict I know when to say enough is enough. So this is a pretty boss EP but clearly the Foo Fighters win album of the Year.
Hate me if you will. But thats the gospel braaasssss.
This EP is like an old man masturbating. He keeps jerking and jerking and getting excited because he thinks he's about to climax, but then of course nothing happens because he is incredibly old and whatever meaningless pleasure he got from masturbation lost its rush long ago.
I havent once seen Ug give a mediocre album an honest review
Thats because the only people who write reviews here, musical taste alternates from top 10 album of the month so fast that it isn't possible to develop any form of true knowledge or taste in music.
This EP is like an old man masturbating. He keeps jerking and jerking and getting excited because he thinks he's about to climax, but then of course nothing happens because he is incredibly old and whatever meaningless pleasure he got from masturbation lost its rush long ago.
lmao this is my favorite band of all time but this shit is too funny man. +1
I havent once seen Ug give a mediocre album an honest review
Thats because the only people who write reviews here, musical taste alternates from top 10 album of the month so fast that it isn't possible to develop any form of true knowledge or taste in music.
that and there is clearly little to no knowledge on the ideologies of the genres they are reviewing. Vapid reviewers spawn vapid reviews.
Didn't like the production of this album personally... very thin and with little punch ever... still good enough though.
i think the problem is that the new producer has never worked with anything this heavy and complex before. just a lot different stuff like muse, godsmack, dream theater, circa survive.
double post: this whole album is basically obfuscation gone wrong. i loved all the little transitions of riffs and sounds which fit neatly together into nine minutes. this is just a cluttered half hour of a ****ing mess.
This ep is ****ing great. A great first release on Metal Blade for these guys. My favorite song off of it has to be "Lunar Wilderness". But that's just my opinion. All and all, in my book it doesn't compare to "Colors" but still pretty amazing. Can't wait until they come out with a full-length on Metal Blade.
Ugh. Why doesn't this site just have a banner on the home page declaring these guys the best band ever? I admit they're talented, but perhaps a bit overhyped on this site. Not everything they release is a masterpiece.
*glances at The Great Misdirect*
Agreed.
Colors, on the other hand... sooo great.
I'm not really sure how I feel about this album so far... At the very least, I like it, but then again, I liked TGM the first time around too. (It's still good, but I find much of it too cheesy and would rather listen to other stuffs)
Definitely need to listen to this more though.
I agree, TGM was kind of cheesy which is why I enjoy the new EP. Reminds a bit more of the Alaska days in terms of the vibe it gives off...much more Cynic than Dream Theater which I think is a good thing (though, I do like Dream Theater).
New EP is certainly more non-sequitur than past releases but that's obviously the direction BTBAM wanted to take this one so I respect that.
As for the haters that have never been a fan, the reasons you guys fundamentally hate BTBAM are the reasons fans fundamentally like them.
No need to call people tools just because they happen to like something that you don't, though.
Oh yes there is a need, this EP is horrendous and the worst thing they've ever done, parts that would have been enjoyable by themselves were completely overshadowed by the shitstorm of awful music and hilariously awful quirky patton rippoffs
I must say I agree with you all the way. I was very disappointed. Every album before TGM was great. I liked TGM, but not more. This ep is just way to dissonant and shit. Why BTBAM? Why would you change your roots? They are doing way too much and I think the drums are too blame. Blake's a god but he's doing way too much. On the other hand, I dont like all these distorted arpeggios. They also changed their usual scales (since TGM) to less melodic ones. I used to feel their music. Now theres just nothing. A bunch of riffs and beats thrown one over another, without any logic. It's very sad. Thats just my opinion dont start blasting me I love this band and respect others opinion, but they have changed...
between the buried and me was an awesome album! only being 3 songs but each about 10 minutes long, it fills the void to equal about 10! the epic begining of specular reflections got to me, it sucked me in and i didnt wanna come out. this album is an insperation to keep on going!
Disturbdkornkid wrote:
[quote]
SO have they gotten rid of most of the (to me) repetitive death metal parts and focused a lot more on there clean nice sounding parts yet? [...] Don't get me wrong, I love death metal, but every time they break into a heavy part it sounds like White Walls to me.
I totally agree, particularly the ends of "Swim To the Moon" on The Great Misdirect and "White Walls." It's like they developed a formula on how to end their records, beginning with the last (approximate) third of the song: 1. Major shred fest. 2. Ease up some for a bit of a (still relatively heavy, more groove-oriented/influenced) grace period. 3. Build up a tremendoush degree of hysteric tension (get the mosh-pit kids heart's racing in wild anticipation of busting out their wildest wannabe Jiu-Jitsu moves). 4. BREAK(the ****)DOWN and provide the sweet release from the aforementioned tension ("Swim To the Moon"'s breakdown is arguably the heaviest on the album, and the "White Walls" breakdown is probably one of the hardest, most emotional breakdowns ever performed by anyone). 5. Briefly, yet heavily and melodically, ease out of the breakdown (sort of a lighter, condensced version of the initial shred-fest of Step 1). 6. Placid passage, chill for a minute. 7. Epic, guitar solo-heavy conclusion. I'm sure this assessment will prove to be somewhat contentious, but even if you disagree with all of the steps, cue up the "White Walls" breakdown and then immediately listen to the "Swim To the Moon" breakdown; it doesn't take much musical aptitude or focus to be able mentally synchronize the "White Walls" breakdown directly over "Swim To the Moon"'s. There's a difference in rythmic notation between the two, but the near-identical "feel" in each are undeniable. It's like they were so enamored by what they accomplished with "White Walls" that the only logical conclusion for ending The Great Misdirect was to create a mirror image of the final "White Walls" passages. If one were to play clips of those two breakdowns for someone who doesn't listen to or understand metal (death metal in particular), they probably wouldn't be able to tell the difference (which, in fairness, applies to a lot of aspects of metal songs, but nonetheless). Right or wrong, I noticed it the first time I heard The Great Misdirect, among a plethora of other ripoffs from their previous efforts. Off of the top of my head, I recall a really obvious ripoff from "Autodidact." And while I thought the sound effects used in Colors were appropriate and well utilized (the "bar scene" noises for instance), whoever decided to include that horse whinny in "Disease, Injury, Madness" should be slapped. I know this is a Parallax thread, sorry for the unrelated rant.
this is their best album i believe, and to think it's only an EP..can't wait for pt.2 to come out!
and i see many people criticizing them for having similar sounds to their previous albums...
and my response to that is, what the **** do you expect? every album has a different feel to it, TGM felt nothing like Colors did, and Colors felt nothing like Alaska, and TPHD feels nothing like TGM or Colors.
You see most bands nowadays that, in every new album they make, it sounds exactly the same as the last one, even if there are different notes involved, they are still playing in the same time signature, same key, everything. BTBAM switches it up so much that it's hard to say that..."oh this breakdown sounded like white walls breakdown" well dude..every breakdown sounds the ****in same tbh. it's all about creating that energy though, it's not about it sounding the same.
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8 to 5:30
Haha!
