Even greatness evolves. The 2003 opus by 40 Below Summer, entitled “The Mourning After” [Universal/Razor & Tie Records], is their next level of progression. 40 Below Summer masterfully plays a unique, powerful brand of Melodic Aggro Metal that is both aggressive and beautiful.
Dark, melodic passages are juxtaposed against fiery intensity. Clean, woeful vocals combine with pristine harmonies and punishing growls. Sorrowful heaviness crashes into chunky, visceral guitar blasts. It’s dynamic and moody; 40 Below Summer is sublimely ferocious.
The best of these vicious cuts include “Breathless,” the mournful radiance of “Monday Song,” “Better Life,” “A Season In Hell,” “Self Medicated,” and melancholic roar of “Rain.” 40 Below Summer brutalizes with style.
In conclusion, 40 Below Summer has an excellent release in “The Mourning After.” This one is a bleak revelation. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Slipknot, Flaw, No One, Lifer, Stone Sour, Ill Nino, 36 Crazyfists, Simon Says, Mudvayne, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. War.
Bill Vogel III
Email at: StrangeAeons@hatebox.net
Copyright 2003.
Courtesy of Stranger Aeons Magazine.
