Misery Signals

Although 2006’s Mirrors was a compelling, well-written album, it fell slightly short of the expectations set by Of Malice and the Magnum Heart, arguably a metalcore classic. Controller, however, is nothing short of a rich tapestry of emotion and musicianship, thoroughly dispelling any inkling of doubt seeded by its predecessor. The level of passion for the craft apparent in every note is overwhelming, with the strongest sections tugging at even the most taught heartstrings. Vocalist Karl Schubach is more confident this time around and a hell of a lot more brutal, providing a contrast with the densely intertwined melodies of the guitars and toughening up the overall tone. The band display massively developed songwriting skills, shifting from punishing polyrhythmic breakdowns to sumptuous, emotionally charged leads at the drop of a dime. The diversity, yet fluidity, of the material is a testament to the group’s understanding of dynamics, so necessary in a style plagued by cookie-cutter monotony. From the swift bludgeoning of "Weight of the World” to the more progressive leanings of "Reset,” there isn’t a dull moment to be found, and more than a few heart stopping ones. If you’ve successfully dropped the finest metalcore album of the year within a month of Shai Hulud’s long-overdue comeback release, your mark upon the genre has permanently been made. Expect this one to be remembered down the line.