Album Review

Score 6.9
Written by Ramar Pittance
Published on 12/20/2004
A four track EP of chaotic metalcore: what could possibly go wrong? With an act like A Life Without at the helm, not much. With an appeal similar to bands like The Red Chord, The Hostage Heart, and Botch; A Life Without's debut EP Thank You Minneapolis, Goodnight is a quick fix of aggression, that doesn't forget to reward the listener with some gratifying hooks and breakdowns.

As per "the usual" of bands in this genre the players are all superbly talented. However, where this young band is able to set itself from its peers is in its ability to put aside the cock swaggering technicality and focus on some memorable song writing. The groove grinding sections of "After Midnight" and "Business Casual" cut though the noise of fret wandering asininity and forcibly assert the bands preference for being impactful over impressive. When A Life Without does head down more a circuitous route with its songwriting, like on the beginning of "Dance Hall Racket", the thick, even production make these forays into the abstract worthwhile.

For fans of this breed of music, there's really not too much to be displeased with. Clocking in at just over ten minutes, Thank you Minneapolis, Goodnight is similar to a sexual experience for more than just it's abbreviated length. It's chaotic, forceful, and probably far more rewarding for me than anybody else. This is any easy recommendation for fans of the genre.



drew's Avatar
drew | posted on 12/2004 | Reply
ETID isn't a cookie-cutter band, necessarily, because they integrate shit into their music in a pretty creative way. however, what theyre integrating in isn't always the most creative or groundbreaking shit. thats all. they're good at writing songs, not parts. which is still awesome, i think.
Ryan's Avatar
Ryan | posted on 12/2004 | Reply
Yeah, it was me. I don't know how you could call ETID's sound cookie-cutter. It's pretty original. Off-count shit, mixed with chaos and straight up rock 'n roll. I can't say I know any band that they were really drawing on, minus some Converge.
Unknown Metalhead
nolan | posted on 12/2004 | Reply
good band. but yeah, it sounds a whole lot like last night in town. which is fine, cause I love that record. hopefully after this release they'll grow a little more in their own direction, and it'll be just as good, and a little more original.
Unknown Metalhead
davefons | posted on 12/2004 | Reply
I really disagree. I don't think these guys sound too much like everytime I die. And, everytime I die's sound is so cookie cutter to begin with, it's like..public domain..you couldn't "steal" it, even if you wanted to.. and by the way ryan, I know this is you..haha.
Unknown Metalhead
Everytime I Die | posted on 12/2004 | Reply
You stole our sound.
drew's Avatar
drew | posted on 12/2004 | Reply
these guys are easily one of the best bands coming out of the twin cities.