Deadweight

Deadweight- Album Overview

Wage War's sophomore album, "Deadweight," was released on August 4, 2017, under the Fearless Records label. This album followed their successful debut, "Blueprints," and showcases the band's evolution in sound and lyrical depth. Recorded at the renowned House of Loud studio in New Jersey, the album was produced by the esteemed Andrew Wade, known for his work with other metalcore giants. "Deadweight" features a blend of metalcore and post-hardcore elements, delivering a raw and powerful listening experience that resonates with themes of struggle, mental health, and resilience.

The album includes notable singles such as "Deadweight," "Ghost," and "Southbound," each accompanied by music videos that further amplify the emotional weight of the tracks. The lyrical content is often introspective, addressing personal battles and societal pressures, which establishes a connection with listeners who may be experiencing similar challenges. The band collaborated with various artists, including guest vocalists who add depth and diversity to the tracks. With powerful instrumentation and compelling melodies, "Deadweight" solidified Wage War's presence in the modern metalcore scene, earning acclaim for its authenticity and emotional honesty. The album's blend of aggressive riffs and melodic choruses demonstrates the band's ability to balance heaviness with accessibility, making it a significant contribution to the genre.

Review

"Deadweight" presents a sonic landscape that is both aggressive and melodic, showcasing Wage War's technical prowess and emotional depth. The opening track, "Relapse," sets the tone with its heavy riffs and introspective lyrics, immediately drawing listeners into the band's world. Throughout the album, the dual vocal approach of Briton Bond and Cody Quistad allows for a dynamic exploration of themes ranging from despair to hope. The instrumentation is tight, with driving drums and intricate guitar work that complements the lyrical content. Tracks like "Ghost" exhibit a more melodic side, proving that the band can easily navigate between crushing heaviness and haunting melodies.

However, while the album excels in many areas, some may find that the formula can become predictable at times, particularly in the more straightforward song structures. Nevertheless, the authenticity and passion present in the lyrics and performances keep listeners engaged. Wage War's artistic vision shines through their ability to create music that resonates on a personal level, making "Deadweight" a compelling listen for fans of the genre.

Highlights

• Powerful dual vocal performances that enhance emotional impact.
• Intricate instrumentation and dynamic song structures.
• Relatable lyrics addressing mental health and personal struggles.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel formulaic or predictable in structure.
• Occasional over-reliance on genre conventions.
• Lack of significant experimentation in sound compared to their debut.

Overall evaluation

"Deadweight" is a strong follow-up album that solidifies Wage War's place in the modern metalcore landscape. With its blend of heavy riffs and poignant lyrics, it captures the struggles of contemporary life while remaining engaging and accessible. The album showcases the band's growth and dedication to their craft.