Moodcore has recently been a declining genre, but one great new band from this school is Breaking Benjamin. Their 2002 release, “Saturate” [Hollywood Records], is solid slab of powerful, yet very melodic Aggro/Moodcore Metal. And easily surpasses most of this pack.
Breaking Benjamin clean, deep vocals mixed with blasting, acidic growls. The guitars use an alternating, chunky/slow style juxtaposed against faster, tightly played jags of furious power. The rhythms are intense, and catchy. There is also elements of Melodic Hardcore in this bruising mix as well.
The most killer of these cuts include “Wish I May,” “Skin,” the pummeling “Sugarcoat,” “Phase,” and the powerful onslaught of “Polyamorous.” Breaking Benjamin obliterates.
In summary, Breaking Benjamin has created an outstanding debut. This one breaks the mold. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Cold, Adema, Linkin Park, Sevendust, Stereomud, Systematic, Taproot, Trapt, No One, Piston (formerly known as Pist*On), Pressure 4-5, Alien Ant Farm, Korn, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Peace.
Bill Vogel III
Email at: StrangeAeons@hatebox.net
Copyright 2003.
Courtesy of Stranger Aeons Magazine.
