Despised Icon - The Ills Of Modern Man
Style: Metalcore/Death Metal
Running Time: 39 Minutes and 53 Seconds
Label: http://www.centurymedia.com/
On this, their 3rd full length, Despised Icon seem to have it in for everyones ears. Whether you're being blasted with technicality or sheer brute force, you can't deny that 'The Ills Of Modern Man' is heavy. Despised Icon has inevitably raised the bar for those coined under the genre of 'Deathcore', did any of us really think this wasn't coming from this band from the great white north ? Though it has taken two years since 'The Healing Process' and hordes of bands have released records trying to claim the 'throne' of sorts. Popular culture would have you believe that bands like Job For A Cowboy, Elysia, All Shall Perish and the like are at the forefront of this genre movement. Though popular culture doesn't always reflect refinement of a particular sound, I guess. Nothing in particular against the aforementioned bands' latest releases, all are stellar in performance
In nearly 40 minutes Despised Icon has completely obliterated the competition and set aside any preconceived notion that 'The Healing Process' couldn't be topped in absolute heaviness. Though some bands have almost completely dropped the 'core' from their next release( ahem Job For A Cowboy) Despised Icon seem to embrace the usage of breakdowns. Which have obviously been all too popular the past 5-6 years in metal/hardcore based music. The fact that they embrace the usage of this element lends greatly to most of their song structures. Occasionally you can see one coming a mile away but as soon as it hits you almost have the feeling of not caring at all that its been thrown in. The technical mastery thrown around the songs on 'The Ills Of Modern Man' more than make up for the lack of skill it takes to chug away on an open D.
The machine like mastery of the drums by Alex Pelletier is astounding, the dual vocal attacks of Alex Erian and Steve Marois are simply brilliant in the way that they compliment each other. Guitar work is handled by both Eric Jarrin and Al Glassman, with Sebastien Piche on bass and all three of these guys handle their instruments with skill and technical proficiency.
It's undeniable that 'The Ills Of Modern Man' has likely become the benchmark that bands from here on have to overcome in this genre of metal. It won't exactly be easy but I know one things for sure, this album is sure to please any fan of 'The Healing Process' or 'Consumed By Your Poison'. Even if both albums relied on a more specific sound 'The Ills Of Modern Man' has rolled them into one and produced quite a fine 3rd release, even if not entirely original in every aspect.
Score: 8.5/10
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