Times of Grace – The Hymn of a Broken Man
Roadrunner Records – 2011
First off you may be saying why are we reviewing this new 2011 Roadrunner records release in a Christian Rock and Metal online zine. Well if you have been around the scene long enough you know, there has always been interest in KillSwitch from the beginning having very spiritual based lyrics and an obvious connection to the Christian community particularly on the bands charismatic debut disc ‘Alive and still breathing’ which was the first and only disc to feature Jesse Leach on vocals. The later albums all heralding vocals from Howard Jones, who did and does fill the roll amazingly, are all amazing in my opinion.
But I had been anticipating this release upon hearing about it for the first time back in mid 2010. Times of Grace is a side project of sorts featuring Jesse Leach and Adam Dutkiewicz of KSE. Being a KillSwitch Engage fan and particularly fond of ‘Alive and Still breathing’ I was really hoping this CD would live up to what I was expecting when I finally got to hear it. Well upon first listen, and many listens there after, of this new album I was amazed.
The first track belts out a very heavy number called ‘Strength in numbers’ which was very powerful and left me thinking, ok this is great it sounds like the next Killswitch Engage album right where Jesse left off! And let me tell you there is nothing wrong with that by any means, but that was what I thought we were getting here upon hearing the first track.
Man was I wrong, yes the album has it share of straight ahead rockers that could have easily been put on any KSE album, but this thing is deeper then that! It takes the listener on an emotional journey from heavy aggression to melodic intervals that reach you deep down in your soul. From beginning to end this CD takes you on an emotional and spiritual rollercoaster ride unlike any other CD I have heard in a while.
Pick this up and pick it up today, Killswitch fan or melodic rock fan alike the words and music that Jesse and Adam share with you here are moving and at times inspirational and definitely very spiritual. If you pick up one of the first pressings it comes with a bonus DVD featuring a visual interpretation of the album and 13 companion videos.
‘The Hymn of a Broken Man’ is sure to be an unexpected hit for 2011 and this reviewer will be singing it’s praises throughout the year and already laying claim to it being in his top 10 for 2011 this early on!
Review By: Bill Bafford for Untombed.com
Kev
Bro, if you ever read this, the album to which you are referring to is actually called ‘Alive or just breathing’. The only reason I say this is because of the meaning behind the name, and it’s ‘loss of effect’ when you say it is what it is not. The meaning of ‘Alive or just breathing’ is much different than ‘alive and still breathing’ in that the latter is quite broad and has a relative meaning. The former however, Jesse is asking if we are ‘alive or just breathing’ in that, are we truly living? He poses, as does the Christian, that it is possible to be ‘alive’ but in the sense that you are merely breathing but not alive in Christ which would mean, ultimately, that one is not really living. I hope this isn’t taken the wrong way, and you find even more appreciation for the album through this. It is one of the best, I do believe. Thanks, Kev