Shattered Semblance - Black White and Red
Rock, Alt. Rock
Illinois, U.S.
Overall Impression: Serving as a poignant exploration of the complexities and contradictions that define the human condition, Shattered Semblance's thoroughly absorbing and undeniably thought-provoking "Black White and Red" intricately fuses compelling songwriting with conviction-filled performances, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences in a way that most definitely stirs the soul. Between its passion-fueled vocal performances, melodic guitar work, superb production, and detail-rich arrangement, listeners are sure to find themselves easily enveloped by the starkly profound themes that drive the songwriting.
Strongest Point(s): The ambiance-heavy opening immediately establishes a gripping atmosphere, an amalgamation of electric and acoustic elements that weave seamlessly throughout the composition. The guitar work, both precise and possessing the necessary amount of bite, evokes a raw intensity that mirrors the emotional peaks and valleys embedded in the lyrical narrative. The drummer's precision and dynamism provide a robust backbone, propelling the track forward with unwavering energy. The lead vocal performance is excellent and manages to navigate the lyrics with a fervor that borders on cathartic. Each lyric is imbued with a palpable sense of emotion, transforming the vocal performance into a conduit for the song's underlying narrative. The singer effortlessly oscillates between subdued introspection and impassioned wails, delivering a performance that elevates the track to new heights. The lyrics of "Black White and Red" delve into the complexities of the human experience, exploring themes of duality, inner conflict, and the struggle to find meaning within a tumultuous existence. The recurring motifs of black, white, and red serve as powerful symbols, representing contrasting elements such as love and hate, good and evil, and life and death. The tone is introspective and contemplative, capturing the internal turmoil and emotional intensity of the speaker's journey. The track's dynamics are a testament to the band's mastery of their craft. From hushed, introspective moments to explosive crescendos, "Black White and Red" takes listeners on a journey that effectively represents the unpredictable up and down nature of both our psyches and experiences. The seamless transitions between these dynamic shifts enhance the emotional impact of the track, creating an immersive experience that resonates long after the final note.
Target Audience Appeal: "Black White and Red" is a strong piece of alternative rock songwriting and I'm sure fans of the genre will resonate strongly with what it has to say.
Artist target suggestions: Shinedown, Seether, Paramore, 10 Years, The Pretty Reckless, Chevelle, Staind, Fuel, Flyleaf, Diamante, Lacuna Coul, Stone Sour, Linkin Park, Breaking Benjamin, Evanescence
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About the Reviewer:
Andre Avanessian is a freelance session guitarist, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.