In 2002, Haste The Day's That They May Know You debut EP garnered so much attention that it eventually led to a record contract with Solid State, the sister label of the almighty Tooth and Nail records. It is no secret what most of the bands sound like on Solid State, or what you can expect from a Solid State record. This debut LP Burning Bridges is no exception.
The opening track 'Blue 42', boasts a brief metal intro until you hear the screams of 'Burning bridges, burning bridge' which gives you a glimpse of what you are about to hear throughout most of the album.
One thing that Haste The Day brings to the table is the use of dual vocals that is found prevalent in a lot of bands in their genre, one screamer, who sounds a lot like Zao, and then one melodic singer. This combination is used throughout the album and in some tracks like 'American Love', add a whole new dimension to the dynamics.
The break down goes into a slow tempo-ed love song with lush instrumentation, before going back into the blistering metal-core to end out the track. Musically, the band brandishes a metal/hardcore sound, with some pop elements and melodic hooks to pull the listener in--try to think of a slower Agony Scene with more melody.
To further add to the Zao references Barry Poynter produces the album, which leaves little to be desired. Lance Garvin and Arthur Green of Living Sacrifice fame, share guest vocal duties on songs 'Blue 42' and the anthem like 'One Life To Live'.
Haste The Day has made a strong effort with this debut record, but not one that will set itself apart from the rest of the rock world. Burning Bridges doesn't break the mold, but it doesn't come off as generic or contrived either.
2.5/4
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2004Reviewed by Len NashThe artwork of Burning Bridges is amazing. Made by Asterik Studios, this genius of design features a theme of fire, a beautiful woman with a halo over her head crying tears of blood, trying to keep enough composure to survive and perfectly embodies the packaging's content. Burning Bridges is about a heart breaking without Christ, falling down and staying up (in faith), throwing away one's sense…Similar sounding releases
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