REVIEW: In Fear And Faith – Self-Titled

October 9th, 2012

Kriston McConnell

Artist: In Fear And Faith
Album: In Fear And Faith
Genre: Post Hardcore
Label: Rise Records

There are only a few bands out there who I look forward to hearing new music from. In Fear And Faith have always been at the top of that list. They might not have the longest list of album releases but but they have definitely put out solid albums over the last few years. Though they have had a few lineup changes since their inception, they’ve managed to keep a unique sound that separates them from the pack.

In Fear And Faith have definitely made their return nown with their third studio album, and it’s certainly not one to forget. Everything about their sound is more mature, more developed. They expertly balance the heavy aspects of their sound with delicate accents of piano and violins. Examples of this can be found in tracks like “A Silent Drum” and “Self Fulfilling Prophecy.”

While as a whole this is a great release, there are definitely a few tracks that really stand out. The very first full song, “The Calm Before The Reform”, is easily one of the best tracks on the album. It starts off with the heavy guitar and unclean vocals, then progresses into Scott’s harmonious voice. He shows off a little bit of his vocal range not only in this song but in other tracks as well.

“Look At What You Made Me Do”, “A Creeping Dose” and “Dream Catcher” are all staples in what makes this release memorable. They each have to offer their own unique sound which sets them a part. And while I’m not always a fan of instrumental breaks in the middle (or anywhere) of records, “Enigmatic” is a wonderful piano piece that is worth taking a listen to. It won’t make it to my ‘listen to while I’m running errands’ playlist, but it’s a part of the whole experience.

I like the unclean vocals much more than what was found on Imperial. While I did enjoy that album, they feel stronger this time around (it’s safe to say that it has to do with the fact that it’s not the same person doing the unclean vocals). Sometimes that’s all it takes to make or break a release. The band still includes plenty of piano parts, which I always enjoy, and they incorporate a few electronic elements in many of the songs.

It’s obvious these men put in a lot of time into this album, In Fear And Faith always manage to provide a unique musical experience and that’s no different with this self-titled release. I’ve listened to this record a handful of times by now and I’m still hearing elements and lyrics that I didn’t catch before. Any fan of IFAF should definitely pick up this album. Actually, ANY fan of post hardcore music should pick this up.

SCORE: 9/10

Review written by: Kriston McConnell