Fear Before the March of Flames

With anticipation running high following their debut full-length, Odd How People Shake, FBTMOF have crafted a fitting follow-up with the similarly schizophrenic Art Damage. Often compared to the Blood Brothers, FBTMOF had made it clear that they are playing with a different set of cards on this record. The screams of vocalist David Marion are literally relentless as the band ploughs through track after track of jerky metallic hardcore, which borrows heavily from bands like Refused and Converge, while still maintaining a style and delivery that is unique to the band. With dissonant riffs laid out over stellar technical drumming, the musical skill exhibited by FBTMOF makes Art Damage a truly interesting listen, as do the added sonic layers of noise and abstract sound. Though not an entirely original work, Art Damage is still a compelling listen from a band who have managed to meet the expectations they knew they were facing.