Life Long Tragedy "Runaways"

I like to consider Runaways "filthy" hardcore. And by "filthy" I don't mean that it's sloppy, unrefined or lewd -- because it most certainly isn't -- but that it's a seriously gritty and fittingly raw-sounding record. The fuzzy, dank production lends plenty of character to Runaways, making the album's dark, mid-paced riffs, desperately shouted vocals and rhythmic build-ups sound more like Life Long Tragedy's own than commonplace Modern Life Is War homage.

Rarely resorting to anything close to guitar chugging, the layers of somber, subtly melodic, and not-too-heavily-distorted guitar parts heighten Runaways' stark tension with tact. They're not especially complex, but they have a lot of feeling. Singer Scott Phillips' voice fits right in with the ominous guitars, driving home the feeling that everything isn't quite right. He hits a peak in "Hey Death," which culminates with wrenching shouts of "Hey death, I'm a fucking mess. Can you stop this beating in my chest?" Occasionally, Life Long Tragedy reverts to a more straightforward, fast-paced approach, which adds a certain fire to the record, but you won't hear any mosh parts or over-the-top gang vocals. That's fine by me, as Runaways' strengths lie in its unique production and tense, layered, ebbing and flowing songwriting.

My collection always has room for impassioned hardcore, whether it moves at the speed of light or a slow-to-medium clip. This is a pretty sweet effort, and something a little different.

Life Long Tragedy - Hey Death

Another great Deathwish Inc. release; get it from their store.