Of Mice & Men have made a huge impression since their inception in 2009. Their personable, emotional lyrics combined with meaty riffs and thunderous drum work have created some incredible albums, in particular their debut self-titled.
However, despite the strength and loyalty of their fan base, not all their albums have been amazing since their first release in 2010. Despite industry professionals and fans alike raving about how wonderful and fantastic subsequent albums have been, it has to be said that Of Mice & Men are fast becoming a boring band. It could be argued however that metalcore in general is now a rather dull genre, and the majority of bands that follow in that vein are failing to bring anything truly exciting to the table.
From start to finish, latest release ‘Cold World’ is rather disappointing. Opening track ‘Game Of War’ is already enough to make people switch off – it takes ages to build before it quietly tails off. The only redeeming factor is Aaron Pauley’s vocals: they’re strong and steady, but only marginally make this track any more bearable.
From here on out, Of Mice & Men do pick up but only slightly. Admittedly, they tick all the boxes when it comes to creating strong, metalcore tracks – fast, furious riffs are prevalent during ‘Relentless’ and ‘Pain’; speed and aggression are crushed together to create ‘Down the Road’ and ‘Like a Ghost’.
However, each track sounds disconcertingly similar and it’s difficult to pick out any real differences between each song, as well as any standout tracks. It’s a shame but Of Mice & Men need to find a way to make themselves truly memorable.
JESS TAGLIANI