Madness

Madness- Album Overview

"Madness," the seventh studio album by the American metalcore band All That Remains, was released on September 28, 2017, through the label Fearless Records. This album marked a significant moment in the band's evolution, showcasing a blend of metalcore, hard rock, and pop-infused melodies that reflected both a return to their heavy roots and an exploration of new sonic territories. The recording took place at the Zing Studios in Massachusetts, with the band working alongside producer Dan Korneff, known for his work with various notable acts in the rock and metal scenes.

The album features 12 tracks, including the lead single "Madness," which was released in July 2017 and received significant airplay, highlighting the band's ability to craft infectious hooks while maintaining their heavy sound. Other notable tracks include "Safe House," a song that embodies the blend of aggression and melody that characterizes the album, and "Halo," which has a more introspective feel. The lyrical content of "Madness" delves into themes of personal struggle, mental health, and resilience, resonating with listeners who may grapple with similar issues.

Collaborators on the album also included the band members themselves, showcasing their growth and maturity as songwriters. The album's artwork, created by the renowned artist Mike Dorsey, further emphasizes the thematic elements of chaos and introspection that permeate the music. "Madness" stands as a testament to All That Remains's enduring legacy in the metalcore genre and their ability to evolve while remaining true to their roots.

Review

All That Remains's "Madness" is a compelling exploration of the band's artistic vision, balancing heavy instrumentation with melodic sensibilities. The album opens with the explosive title track, immediately setting a tone of urgency and intensity. Lyrically, the songs delve into complex emotions, with frontman Phil Labonte's vocal delivery shifting seamlessly between fierce screams and haunting clean vocals, effectively conveying the struggles depicted in the lyrics.

Musically, "Madness" showcases the band's adeptness at crafting memorable riffs and engaging choruses, with tracks like "Safe House" exemplifying their ability to fuse aggressive guitar work with anthemic melodies. The production quality is polished, allowing each instrument to shine while maintaining the raw energy that fans expect from the band. However, some critics argue that the album occasionally leans too heavily on mainstream influences, which may alienate long-time fans who prefer the more hardcore elements of their earlier work.

Overall, "Madness" is a noteworthy entry in All That Remains's discography, reflecting both their growth as musicians and the changing landscape of the metalcore genre.

Highlights

• Strong blend of heavy instrumentation and melodic hooks.
• Thought-provoking lyrics addressing personal struggles and mental health.
• Production quality enhances the overall listening experience.

Weak points

• Some tracks may feel too mainstream for die-hard metalcore fans.
• Occasional lack of cohesion between heavier and softer elements.
• Limited exploration of new sounds compared to previous albums.

Overall evaluation

"Madness" is a solid effort from All That Remains that showcases their ability to evolve while maintaining their core identity. While it may not please every fan, it certainly provides a fresh perspective on their sound.