The traditions of metalcore aren’t slowly fading away on Morning Again's latest record. This straightedge band, hailing from the 90s, played a pivotal role in shaping the modern metalcore scene with their aggressive, riff-heavy sound, deep drum grooves, thumping bass, and raw, visceral vocals. Emerging during a time when this style of playing was all the rage, the band does a commendable job of both capturing the essence of that era while also pushing the boundaries of the sound.

The riffs are undeniably powerful and fast, but they can occasionally feel a bit repetitive due to the shreddy guitar style that defined the genre. However, the band injects some much-needed variety with a few slower tracks, which offer some refreshing, dynamic riffs that add layers to the album's overall sound. These slower moments provide a sense of mesmerizing groove, offering a contrast to the intense, fast-paced segments and showcasing the band's ability to craft more melodic and intricate guitar work.

The vocals are delivered with a sense of urgency, bolstered by well-crafted lyrics that make you feel the emotion behind the words. There’s a raw intensity to the vocal performance that mirrors the aggression in the music, amplifying the message the band is conveying. The drumming is solid, with a deep, resonant tone and some groovy chops that add a unique flavor to the tracks. At times, however, the guitars overshadow the drums, which could have benefitted from a bit more prominence in the mix.

The bass, especially with its low tuning, adds a heavy, almost subterranean quality to the album, supporting the overall weight of the sound. It’s clear the bass player knew how to make the most of those low-end frequencies, contributing to the band's sonic identity.

Unfortunately, the album's major drawback lies in its production and some of the playing. The mix feels dated, with a rough, almost DIY quality that can detract from the overall experience. At times, it seems as though the producer was still finding their footing, which results in moments where the sound feels unrefined or a bit chaotic. There are also instances where the band's inexperience is evident, with some sloppy, disjointed sections that interrupt the flow. However, these moments are few and far between and don't completely overshadow the album's strengths.

Ultimately, Morning Again delivered a solid record for a young band, and for listeners at the time, it provided an authentic experience. Despite its rough edges, the album still holds up as a snapshot of the band's early days, embodying both the passion and imperfections of a young band trying to carve out their place in the metalcore scene.