The hardcore/metalcore scene is becoming flooded with bands cashing in on their contemporaries' ideas, making for a homogenous, unoriginal scene. Any two bands picked at random in the genre are most likely to sound very similar, which is not a good thing. They all seem to have the average song length of around 4 minutes, similar untalented screaming vocals, riffs and beats lacking any sort of complexity, and lyrics that are typical, at best. I was ready to settle for bands like Atreyu, Eighteen Visions, As I Lay Dying, and Poison the Well as the best of this interesting sub-genre, fusing metal with hardcore. That was, until I discovered Between the Buried and Me.

Upon listening to them, I really had no idea what I was in for. Originally, I wasn't sure what to make of their sound. It was extremely heavy, very unique, unconventional, and slightly chaotic. Never before had I seen so many time-signature changes in a song; so many warps between varying vocal styles, and rhythmic patterns. In one song, I had heard at least five different tones, while at the same time being able to absorb and overall theme or feel of the song that was complemented perfectly by the climactic ending. This can be said of almost every single BTBAM song to date, and definitely all of those on this album. If Opeth are progressive death metal, then Between the Buried and Me are progressive metalcore. Each song can only be listened to as a whole, and only partial enjoyment can be attained from disjointed listenings.

The consistency of the material on this album is astounding, as every track is enjoyable in the most profound way. Whether it be the unrelenting, often gut-wrenching lyrics and song structure of "More of Myself to Kill," or the brutality-gone-docile approach to "Shevanel Cut a Flip," there isn't a single track on here that won't have some visceral impact on the listener. Vocalist Tommy Rogers' multiple screams, growls, and bellows are simply too emotional, too sincere to deny. The jagged guitar lines and unpredictable drum patterns complement the vocals perfectly, creating a rare, almost symbiotic bond between the band members. It's amazing to see this band perform live, as I always imagine them as a single entity in my mind when I listen to their songs.

Tommy Rogers' lyrics are evocative, manic, and often disturbing. Though you can't understand what he's saying half the time, he's so expressive that you simply don't have to. Looking up the lyrics only adds another dimension to what is already some of the most moving music you will ever hear. I didn't know a human being could produce the sounds that come from Tommy Rogers' body before I heard this album.

To put it simply, you would be foolish not to give Between the Buried and Me a chance. I have heard very little criticism towards this band, and what I have heard seems unsuitable and misdirected. I find it highly unlikely that anyone would not testify to the band's incredible talent, both in songwriting, technicality, and functioning as a group. The album is all but impeccable, start finish. The multi-faceted tapestry that is this album couldn't have been made any other way. If you ever get a chance, see BTBAM live, also make sure you purchase their other album, The Silent Circus. It isn't quite as focused as their self-titled, but is experimental and incredible in its own right.

Recommended: Yes

Great Music to Play While: Driving