Defeater-Empty Days & Sleepless Nights
Bridge 9
March 8, 2011

Defeater created a pretty big buzz before they signed to Bridge 9. Their debut EP on Bridge 9 only enhanced their credibility as being the next hardcore Gods that everyone else will emulate years after they break up. While the EP was short enough to leave fans salivating for more, Empty Days and Sleepless Nights is just right enough to leave even Goldilocks with a satisfied smile.

While some bands try to reinvent the wheel that brought them to glory, Defeater stick with what they know. The songs sound epic and emotional, making great use of dynamics, and Jay Maas croons along with a harsh yet melodic yell that reminds me of The Dedication. The drumming is hard hitting with well placed and killer fills, and the guitar lines (while somewhat in the background) add an element that makes for a nearly hidden enjoyment.
I haven't been able to fully get into the four acoustic songs at the end, but I think that's because of their placement. The songs themselves are good, but they don't break up the intensity, which is something that's worked so well for them on previous albums. Its a little too anti-climatic to end their album, but they would work really well had they been mixed in with their other material. Instead, it almost sounds like an album with a bonus four song EP (which, according to the Bridge 9 page, it is-Amazon has it where you can order all 14 songs).

I fully endorse Defeater as being the next big thing in hardcore. They expanded on the ground Modern Life is War planted, adding acoustic and heavier elements (and better drumming). They have great ideas and know how to write a great song, almost regardless of genre. This album should have been called The Shape of Hardcore to Come, as this is the revolution.

Written by: RF
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