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10 Years - From Birth to Burial
'From Birth to Burial' is the seventh studio album by alternative/melancholic metal band 10 Years. I've been a fan of 10 Years ever since hearing 'The Autumn Effect' back in 2005, and most of their discography has been of very high quality. 10 Years seems to be a pretty underrated band, yet they've been pretty consistent. Their previous album 'Minus the Machine' was pretty easily my favorite of the band, however this album may take it's place as my favorite.
10 Years plays a style of melancholic metal, that isn't all dissimilar to bands like Katatonia except a bit heavier. Their last album I think showed them at their height, but somehow this album is even darker then the last. The opening songs 'Selling Skeletons' and the title track are unmistakably the sound of 10 Years, with Jesse Hasek's melancholic passionate vocals, dark piano work, and heavy yet chilling guitar work. Both songs are a couple of my favorites on the album, with their crushing riffing, menacing bass, and Hasek's vocals sound as emotive as ever, sending chills down my spine. However, this time around 10 Years seems to be adding some slight Metalcore elements into their sound. The songs 'Triggers and Tripwires' and 'Crimson Kiss' both have screaming vocals reminiscent of melodic metalcore and static-y guitar work.
Something I've always loved about 10 Years is when they make ballads, they're melancholic ballads. So they always sound great, fitting right in, unlike when most metal bands make ballads. In fact, 'Forever Fields (Sowing Season)' from the last album is one of my favorites from them. This album is no different, the songs 'Survivors?' and 'Moisture Residue' are both beautiful melancholic songs. With atmospheric guitar work, Hasek's beautiful vocals, and haunting melodies, these songs are certainly highlights of the album. The latter has some of the most beautiful piano I've heard, mixing perfectly with Hasek's vocal melodies and lyrics.
Overall, 'From Birth to Burial' is certainly one of my favorite 10 Years albums, if not favorite. While it may not be too different from what they've done in the past, for me it's another stellar release from one of my favorite bands. I highly recommend this album to any fans of melancholic metal. Hope you found this review helpful.
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