The metal world has been waiting almost five years for a new Hatebreed album, and their major-label debut Perseverance will surely give the kids exactly what they need. After splitting from Victory records and embarking on huge national tours Tattoo the Earth (2000) and Ozzfest (2001), the demand for another slab of hardcore went through the roof. Produced by Matt Hyde (Slayer, Porno for Pyros), Perseverance is a head-splitting, blood-spilling 16-song assault that has but one dull moment-the pause from track to track.
It’s hard to find standout tracks when they’re all better than any other hardcore band we’ve ever heard. “Proven” and “Perseverance” start it with a wallop of pummel-core at it’s finest. Slayer’s Kerry King makes a quick appearance on “Final Prayer”, adding scaled grinding that the boys in the band will forever try to duplicate. Each track is a vision of anger and retribution, focusing on the downside of touring and living in America as an up and coming metal band. It’s the pain that Hatebreed has endured that has given them the drive to create a record that speaks volumes about life and facing the truths every day.
As much as this band deserves to be heard, they’ll receive little, if any radio attention. But they’ve already assured their fans they won’t be ignored. Jamey Jasta has been screaming about how to make a better life for yourself for seven years now, and thousands are listening. Perseverance is by far the most impressive metal album released this year, and judging by the roar online, the moment it goes nationwide is the moment Hatebreed will finally have the album to go with five years worth of the buzz that has surrounded them.
+ rick hinkson
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