Hollow Bodies • Blessthefall • Fearless Records • Producer: Joey Sturgis • Score: 7 out of 10
A follow up to 2011’s Awakening—which debuted at No. 32 on Billboard’s 200—Blessthefall’s Hollow Bodies picks up where the former left off. “Exodus” kicks up the mosh pit dirt to set the album’s tone of metalcore riffs, extended breakdowns and digital manipulation. Heavier chugs and thicker growls persist throughout, sending “we’re tougher than you think” vibes, but the best songwriting is found on “See You On The Outside,” featuring Vic Fuentes and “Open Water” featuring LIGHTS. While the additional co-writing with various artists is commendable (Jake Luhrs of August Burns Red and Jesse Barnett of Stick To Your Guns) the shallow lyrics in tracks like “Youngbloods” exposes the band’s acceptance of being “just another Warped Tour band.” – Andy Mesecher
