I write this review with a sense of sadness knowing that the band dedicated the album to their lead vocalist Cory James, who passed away in May of this month. I can’t tell you how differently I’m listening to the album now. The songs mean much more to me even though I didn’t personally know Cory. It’s a little painful too as this album is absolutely fantastic with lots of heartfelt melodies and harmonies.
Musically they’re hard to put in one category, but they’re leaning mostly into late 90’s with touches of Emo and Pop Punk, but there’s much more depth to these guys too, they seem to have also grown up with a health dose of Classic Rock too. The songs are catchy without being too bogged down in Pop sensibilities. They use backing vocals beautifully, there’s tasty guitar solos and the production is fantastic as the overall sound has a nice crisp punch to it.
As I mentioned earlier, listening to the album is bittersweet as you can’t help but think about the loss of Cory James and how it relates to so many of the songs. “All I Am” is a beautiful ballad with piano and a powerful message. If the music industry and radio wasn’t so corrupt, this would song would be hitting the charts hard, it brings you back to high school love and a more romantic time.
“Leap In The Dark” is another fantastic track, very positive, very relatable with a great hook. “Trailblazer” is another one along those same lines, both tracks give a sense of hope and self-confidence.
“Razor Blades And Roses” was a bit darker and heavier and showed the diversity of the band, while still maintaining their signature sound. “This Is My Life” gave me a lump in my throat even before listening knowing that Cory has passed away. Ironically it’s not a “sad” song, and the album is actually quite positive, but considering the situation it can tear you up a little.
Bottom line, this is a fantastic album from beginning to end. This is a true band who should be extremely proud of themselves. It’s a secular album but there’s certainly a spiritual component to it and its relatability to so many will certainly resonate with the audience.
I hope they can move forward as they have planned, I think there’s great potential for the band, this is a spectacular debut and I’m honored to have been able to hear it.
‘All I Am’ tracklisting: 1. Leap In Dark; 2. Trailblazer; 3. Take Me Away; 4. Hold On; 5. Golden State of Mind; 6. All I Am; 7. RazorBlades & Roses; 8. This is My Life; 9. Lazy Days; 10. Walking Free; 11. Sunshine In My Heart.
https://linktr.ee/zacthelocust
https://open.spotify.com/artist/6SUjCCayh9QZlysYmPw06t
