BEYOND AGONY

"The Last of a Dying Breed" (American Detriment Recordings; 2005)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Beyond Agony, an Indiana based band, are going to get lumped into the metalcore genre by everyone – critics like me included. But the reality is that -- after listening to “The Last of a Dying Breed” -- it is readily apparent that Beyond Agony’s music is an amalgam of heavy metal styles that balance the past and the present for a hybrid that is pleasing to the ears.

The five songs on “The Last of a Dying Breed” are tight and muscular – generally aiming for the listener’s solar plexus rather than the head.  These kinds of musical body shots, if there can be considered such a thing, are like cathartic exercises purging bad elements from one’s soul.  And that’s a good thing because as much as I like music to appeal to my cerebral side, it never hurts to truly a musicians’ pain through their artistic expression.

“The Last of a Dying Breed” was produced by Neil Kissack. The production is clear and solid – it’s very good for an independent release.

Beyond Agony: Matt Tetrick on vocals, Andy Nixon on lead guitar, Tom Beenken on rhythm guitar, Matt Wambsganss on bass, and Shane Ailey on drums and percussion.

For more information visit http://www.beyondagony.com/

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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Revised: 15 Apr 2024 14:51:32 -0400.