The 2013 Arsies: January 18, 2013

January 18, 2013

I'm sure at least one of you is snickering at the thought of me trying to take Attack Attack! seriously. Most likely, it's because of the whole crabcore thing, which... hey, no such thing as bad press, right? And besides, on This Means War, the band shows considerable promise and growth, sounding very much like a group who is experimenting and seeking a more developed sound. They don't entirely shed their adolescence, though; the album is littered with self-conscious attempts at pop hooks that ultimately fall flat. Also of dubious distinction is the fact that Attack Attack! may have created the ultimate djent/dubstep fusion in The Confrontation. Also, if you squint at it funny, the album cover looks like two penises. Even with those detractions, This Means War is surprisingly good, stands up to multiple listens, and showcases a band that's growing up in a good way.
But you know what? None of that matters. Did you notice who Attack Attack! is competing against today? Converge. Did you have any doubt that All We Love We Leave Behind would match or exceed the devastating performance of their previous album, Axe To Fall? Did you think they were going to go easy on the crabsters, or show a softer side? If so, have a listen to Trespasses, pick your teeth up off the floor, and enjoy.
Next up, we end our Round of 32, with Pig Destroyer taking on Unsane.