I've been quite critical of Lockjaw's recent signing policy as I don't think many of their recent releases have ben much cop. But I'll take that back for Forever Ends Today, who do a very good From First To Last impression. While their cliched name and blood-splattered album cover doesn't do them many initial favours, the songs themselves show you really shouldn't judge a book by its cover. 'Note: I Have A Problem' has some really excellent vocal work, and while the band play a style of music that is dying on its arse, they do it pretty well. The use of screaming isn't overdone and the melodic parts are catchy enough to keep your interest at least.
The sampled third song, leading into the heavier 'Fine Line Between Something and Nothing' is very reminscient of FFTL. Probably not so much elsewhere - certainly not up to the level or depth of Sonny's vocals - but definitely an influence. While Forever Ends Today don't really do too much new, they have a good go at creating a sound that's energetic and melodic. By the same token, a lot of bands do this kind of thing already and I very much doubt it will be a critic's hit; after all, if I wanted to listen to a great record of this type I;d listen to The Used. Fans of Underoath will like this record as it's to a good standard, but there's nothing to really mark them out as a great band. Becoming their own band, rather than a re-hash of someone else, is neccessary if they want to take things to the next level.
paul
