Search - Corpus Christi :: The Darker Shades of White

Brutal

Juston | Texas | 05/15/2009

(3 out of 5 stars)

""The Darker Shades Of White marks the debut release of Cincinnati, Ohio metalcore group Corpus Christi and their first as part of the Victory Records family. Falling somewhere within the realm of the metalcore genre, Corpus Christi combines winning song formulas from the likes of As I Lay Dying or Killswitch Engage, and gives them their own unique edge.



One thing immediately evident of Corpus Christi is how they wear their beliefs on their sleeve, and in doing so, apply a subtle, yet meaningful message amongst the brutality, further shattering the stereotype that music with a greater meaning and purpose can't be expressed via metal. With lyrics such as "This heart of stone breathes new life and beats again." the delivery is not necessarily sugar coated, but the meaning is pure.



They waste no time in displaying their sheer talent as opening track "Parade Of Scars" kicks off the album with drummer Justin Evans laying down a vigorous blast beat as the shrills of Will Henry engulf the listener as part one of the dual vocal assault. Further into the song we become acquainted with the melodic part of the duo in the form of guitarist Jarrod Christman belting the chorus with a voice eerily similar to that of Killswitch Engage front-man Howard Jones. In true metalcore style, there is never a dull moment with The Darker Shades Of White. The contrasting vocal stylings, combined with engrossing solos and tight drums make for an extravagant debut that is sure to be a hit among avid fans of metalcore.



While not necessarily breaking new ground in the metalcore genre with their debut, Corpus Christi managed to give us a very enjoyable first look at what the band has to offer. While the album falls victim to a few cliché lyrics and a few somewhat weak tracks towards the end of the album, it's to be expected from a band who hasn't quite found their niche. The hard work and determination displayed on this album is what may put the band among Victory's finest." ReviewRinseRepeat"

Very solid effort!

Anthony M. Takach | San antonio, Tx | 06/09/2009

(4 out of 5 stars)

"When I ordered this album here on amazon I was a bit skeptical at first, thinking it would be good but kind of samey. A lot of bands these days are copying bands like killswitch engage by mixing growling with clean vocals. Not that theres anything wrong with that formula but some bands can't pull it off that well. This band can. I think by album #2-3 this band will be top of its game! Theres room for improvement but theres also some very solid tunes on this disc. Tracks like "parade of scars" are heavy but towards the end theres a bit of clean singing that just sticks with me all day after hearing it. Others like "Marilyn" speak of loosing a loved one and how hard it is to deal with but also how to move on and stay strong for you're children/rest of the family by knowing they're in a better place.

Though theres a lot of dark themes at play here theres always a Light shining through the lyrics. Songs like "baptized in fire" are very spiritual and showcase the bands talent alongside they're faith in God.

Tunes such as "the sacrifice" however seem a bit vague but you can def connect the lyrics with God/Jesus Christ if you feel like it. All in all this album is a very good one, theres only a few so so tracks but the album as a whole is a great addition to any metal fans library. I'm looking forward to seeing how good these guys get cause theres a lot of potential here.



God bless, Tony"

Superb Melodic Hardcore

Media Lover | 02/18/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Corpus Christi's "The Darker Shades of White" is a huge and dynamic first album that screams MOTIVATING ENTERTAINMENT! These guys are talented musicians, devoted Christians, and downright hardcore. If you like "August Burns Red" (although Corpus is probably a bit softer) or "Haste The Day" (comparable) these guys will be right up your alley."