There Is a Hell, Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is

Album overview

"There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret!" is the third studio album by the British rock band Bring Me the Horizon, released on October 4, 2010, under the label Epitaph Records. This album marked a significant turning point for the band, showcasing their evolution from their metalcore roots into a more experimental sound that incorporates electronic elements, orchestral arrangements, and diverse influences from various genres. The album was produced by the band's vocalist, Oliver Sykes, and keyboardist, Jordan Fish, alongside producer, and engineer, Dan Lancaster.

The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Josh Franceschi of You Me at Six and composer and orchestrator, Daniel P. Carter. It includes a total of 11 tracks, with singles like "It Never Ends" and "Antivist" gaining significant airplay and critical acclaim. The album's themes explore concepts of life, death, and the human condition, expressed through raw and emotional lyrics. The artwork, created by the renowned artist, was designed to reflect the album's dark yet expansive themes.

Commercially, the album debuted at number 20 on the Billboard 200 and received positive reviews from critics, who praised its ambition and genre-blending approach. The album's bold sound and lyrical depth contributed to its cultural significance, influencing a wave of artists in the post-hardcore and metal scenes, as well as expanding the boundaries of what heavy music could encompass.

Review

The sound of "There Is a Hell..." is a fearless amalgamation of styles that pushes the boundaries of metalcore, incorporating elements of electronic music and experimental rock. The album opens with the haunting track "Crucify Me," which sets the tone for the emotional and thematic journey ahead. Lyrically, the band delves into existential questions and the often-painful realities of life, showcasing a level of introspection that resonates deeply with listeners. Tracks like "It Never Ends" and "Alligator Blood" exhibit an aggressive yet melodic sound, balancing soaring choruses with heavy breakdowns. Sykes' vocals range from guttural screams to melodic singing, showcasing his versatility as a frontman.

The artistic vision behind the album is bold and unapologetic, with the band not shying away from controversy or darker themes. The production quality is exceptional, with layered instrumentation and atmospheric soundscapes that enhance the overall listening experience. However, the transitions between different musical styles may leave some listeners disoriented, as the band often shifts gears abruptly. Despite this, the album's ambition and willingness to challenge musical conventions render it a standout work in Bring Me the Horizon's discography.

Highlights

• Innovative blend of genres, merging metalcore with electronic and orchestral elements.
• Thought-provoking lyrics that explore deep existential themes.
• Strong production quality that enhances the emotional impact of the music.

Weak points

• Some transitions between genres may feel jarring to listeners.
• The experimental nature may not appeal to purists of the metalcore genre.
• Certain tracks may lack the same impact as the album's strongest singles.

Overall evaluation

"There Is a Hell Believe Me I've Seen It. There Is a Heaven Let's Keep It a Secret!" is a bold and ambitious album that marks a significant chapter in Bring Me the Horizon's career. With its innovative sound and deep lyrical content, it challenges the conventions of the genre and showcases the band's growth. While not without its flaws, the album's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a noteworthy addition to the heavy music landscape.