Death feels a bit like a paradox on Boundaries’ latest album. On one hand, the hardcore band delivers some incredibly heavy sounds that are sure to satisfy fans of the genre, with brutal vocals, crushing riffs, and monstrous drums. However, on the other hand, there’s a sense of familiarity that makes some tracks feel a little too "by the numbers." While they clearly know how to bring the heaviness, the album sometimes lacks the spark of originality that would set it apart from similar acts in the scene.
From the moment the album kicks in, you’re hit with intense, bone-crushing riffs and vocals that leave an impression. The band’s ability to craft hard-hitting music is undeniable. There are moments where their melodic clean singing adds a refreshing contrast to the sheer weight of the hardcore sound, helping to breathe life into what could otherwise be a relentless barrage of noise. However, despite these moments of dynamism, a sense of repetition starts to creep in. Some of the tracks feel like they blend together — while heavy and well-produced, they lack distinctive features that could make them stand out in the crowded hardcore/metalcore landscape.
While the intensity is certainly present, the tracks often fall into a familiar pattern that doesn’t leave much room for exploration. The album does have a raw power that’s hard to ignore, but it sometimes feels like the band is riding the same wave of intensity without evolving beyond it. This can make the listening experience feel a bit predictable. However, there are a few songs that stand out with some more intricate riffs, cooler vocal dynamics, or unique structures. These moments shine through as the band’s more inspired pieces, adding flavor to the record’s otherwise consistent aggression.
The band does an excellent job of paying homage to the classic metalcore scene, evoking the sounds of the early 2000s with a modern twist. But in doing so, they sometimes miss the chance to push their own creative boundaries. Instead of pushing the genre forward or adding something new to the conversation, they tend to lean on established formulas that, while effective, don’t break new ground. It’s clear the band has respect for the roots of metalcore, but there’s a lingering sense that they could’ve taken more risks to carve out their own niche.
One of the highlights of this album is the lyricism. The band’s use of metaphor and imagery in their songwriting is engaging and provides an extra layer of depth to the tracks. It’s evident that they put thought into their lyrics, crafting lines that offer more than just the typical hardcore fare. The metaphors help shape the writing, making it fun to dig into the meaning behind the songs. However, while the lyrics are certainly refreshing, they don’t quite reach the level of innovation that could elevate the album into something groundbreaking.
So, are Boundaries pushing the limits of metalcore? Not necessarily. While they’re not reinventing the genre, they’ve crafted a solid collection of songs that will likely resonate with fans who appreciate the heavy, emotionally charged sounds of hardcore and metalcore. The album delivers some great moments, but it’s not without its shortcomings. The repetitive nature of some tracks, combined with a lack of major innovation, keeps the album from standing out in a genre full of similar-sounding bands. Still, there’s enough here to enjoy, and if you’re looking for heavy music with some engaging moments, this record does its job. It’s a halfway decent journey, but not one that will blow the doors off the genre.
RATING: 7.5/10
NOTABLE TRACKS:
Easily Erased
Cursed To Remember
Scars on A Soul