Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Meridian The Awful Truth Company: Victory Release: 2014 Genre: Reviewer: Greg Watson

Catchiness and hooks

Poughkeepsie, NY hardcore unit Meridian's full length debut, 'Awful Truth', is a mix of hardcore, metal and pop punk elements. Mixed up together in a sonic brew, the sounds come together pretty well. For me, I was not particularly fond of the pop-punk parts as I've never been partial to that genre. However, there's no denying there is plenty of catchiness and hooks on this album that will get stuck in your head in the same way that a popcorn kernel gets lodged in your gums. Tracks like "Slither", "Slip Away" and "Set Free" have a distinct metal feel but focus more on poppy vocals. Most of the songs sound fairly similar as the album goes on, causing there to be a lack of change and soundscape. The album is comprised of eleven tracks but at times feels like one long track, broken up into eleven different parts. That being said however, some of the tracks are fairly decent and all of them are well-crafted and the lyrics are well written. Dealing with topics such as depression and child neglect, it's clear the band has a pulse on current issues and are not shy singing about serious topics. If the band can cut back on the pop vocals next time, I feel that they may be able to make the next step towards stepping out of the shadow of bands like New Found Glory or Good Charlotte. For me there just wasn't enough oomph on the album.



Bandsite: https://www.facebook.com/MeridianNY
Company Link: www.victoryrecords.com
Cover Link: http://d3vgj9bg0vqpu3.cloudfront.net/albums/hires/VR711.jpg