Crimson Armada

Columbus, OH's Crimson Armada are a band that display archetypal, over-the-top deathcore and although their debut full-length release, Guardians, has some strong points, the overall product is merely mediocre. Clearly influenced by the Black Dahlia Murder (but certainly not as good), the band heed the common characteristics of their sound, such as fast-paced guitar riffs and thunderous drumming, as well as layered vocals — death growls juxtaposed with high-pitched screams. Crimson Armada have also mastered the art of the breakdown, but the main off-key element that hinders any attachment to this record is the lyrics, which writhe with spiritual messages and puts a damper on the band's attempted death metal effect. The only admirable aspect of Guardians is the guitar work, which includes intertwining melodies and intricately technical leads by Dan Hatfield and Josh Jardim. However, this album is mainly a reminder that Christianity and death metal make for a blasphemous combination.