Betraying the Martyrs
The Resilient
(Sumerian Records)
4.5/5
Paris-based deathcore band Betraying the Martyrs’ third full-length, The Resilient, is fierce and electrifying.
Riddles of political statements find their place in the lyrics while beckoning an intense emotion within the listener that wills them to listen further. Lyrically, the album is profound; the instrumentation is astounding, weaving it all together perfectly.
My personal favourite song is “The Great Disillusion,” with its heart-wrenching lyrics that are pumped with adrenaline through the poignant vocals. Another favourite is “Lost for Words.”
Unfortunately, some songs, such as “Unregistered,” lack a diverse vocal range. This shortcoming in variety can be seen in a few other tracks as well, but overall the album makes up for it.
The Resilient is undoubtedly worth a listen, although a few parts felt slightly repetitive. Regardless, I highly recommend this album to those who wish to listen to provocative music.
-Jordyn Goodwin
Le Trouble
Making Matters Worse
(Indica Records)
3/5
Making Matters Worse is the first full-length album from Montreal-based pop band Le Trouble. I didn’t expect much as I began listening to the first song on the album, “How Was I to Know,” as it takes a long time for the lead singer to kick in, something I didn’t like very much. But I was surprised by the later songs, especially “What Do You Want from Me,” which has a unique pop sound. “Anywhere but Here” and “Fistful of Glitter” had awesome beats as they started.
Making Matters Worse is a pop album, but I can hear some rock and indie influences as well. The songs generally have a head-bobbing groove, but they do start to sound similar after a while. Although the vocals didn’t have much range and are slightly out of key, the fast beat made up for it.
-Calista Pearson