I know bands often change their sound as a mark of progression, for a band of Justice‘s stature, a change from being one of Europe’s premier hardcore bands to a more melodic rock-based effort is rather baffling. While the songs are still relatively good, the energy and intensity just isn’t there any more. Well it is, just not at the levels the band had previously set themselves.
The press release accompanying this CD states “Escapades is a record that will take some getting used to” and it’s not wrong – those people expecting another angry record in a similar manner to which we have become accustomed to are likely to be disappointed. Perhaps the band feel this is the route to more ‘commercial’ success. Perhaps this is just what they want to play. Either way, I think I preferred the old Justice more.