Counterparts - Prophets
Rating
RIYL
Misery SignalsSaints Never Surrender
Comeback Kid
Release Date
02/23/2010
Label
Verona RecordsTracklist
1. Reflex Tester2. Isolation
3. The Sanctuary
4. Goodbye, Megaton
5. Prophets
6. A Plea: A Promise
7. Carpe Diem
8. Only Anchors
9. Dark Ages
10. Sturdy WIngs
11. Digression
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When I get a new album, I approach it like a relationship: I size it up a bit and try to decide where it's going. Could I see myself with it in a few years? Could I take it home to Mom and Dad? Would I be embarrassed to bring it out on a Saturday night with the guys? You see… I like my bands like I like my women; no frills, lots of attitude and as little to no make-up as possible. It just so happens that finding a band that amazing is just as rare as finding a woman that remarkable. Well if you’re like me, then boy do I have news for you. Ontario, Canada holds the key to our hopeless romantic hearts -- a band that has passion, aggression, beautiful melodies, and the potential to take the hardcore/metal scene by storm. Who is this astonishing band that I am talking about? My friends, I give you Counterparts.
Somewhat still adolescent in the scene, Counterparts deliver a veteran sound on their debut full-length, Prophets. This seasoned resonance is instantly delivered on the opening track “Reflex Tester”. Not even a minute and a half long and the track reassures you that you made a wise decision by committing to a relationship with this album. Full guitar sounds, crisp drum work and vocals that fall between melodic hardcore and metalcore. Combined, the ingredients in “Reflex Tester” are a recipe to a tasty appetizer prepping you for the entrée that is the rest of the album. “Isolation”, while still heavy and aggressive, exhibits the melodic sound that Counterparts incorporate into their music so very well. Lyrically, you get a sense of torment and, yet, positivity which seems to be two themes that are teetered between throughout the album's entirety.
“Only Anchors” is the perfect pick me up. Uplifting lyrics and intense musicianship are provided throughout to keep you contemplating whether you have been living your life to its fullest. The most memorable lyrics in the track are at the end, “Only anchors…can keep me from, moving forward.”
However, it’s the second to last track, “Sturdy Wings,” that will for sure give hope to the hopeless. The track's name is definitely befitting, as it’s a solid refuge for anyone that uses music as a remedy for a darkened spirit. It gives you wings to soar above the trials and tribulations this life throws at you. And as far as production goes, it’s perfect, providing a solid mix of melody and immensity. The sound is just so full and inviting.
Counterparts are sure to take this scene by storm, providing an outlet for those who have felt betrayed and let down with recent bands of similarity. Taking what seem to be notes from the pages of Misery Signals’ early days, these dudes know what it takes to make their love and passion for this music shine through. Prophets will certainly propel theses guys into the forefront of this genre. Let’s hope they stay there for a while, because I’m definitely curious and hopeful for what the future has in store for them.
--Bill Lohr
Comments
Wisconsin
i LOVE all bands in that RIYL. will have to check this out.
Minneapolis, MN
I was wondering if this album was going to get reviewed here. I'm really glad someone else is as pumped up about Counterparts as I am. Prophets was an instant hit with me from start to finish.
Oh and I want to take a poll. How many people read the song title as "Goodbye, Megatron?" It's actually "mega-ton."
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Glasgow, Scotland
I'm loving this album. I think you got the RIYL spot on. Great review!
San Diego, CA
Too old to bother, too young to give a shit.
Illinois
love that intro paragraph...
but ya this album is great
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California
finally got around to grabbing this, definitely as good as everyone says.
Ontario, Canada
These guys are fantastic. I got to play a show with them a couple times around Ontario, and every time was better than the previous. I can only see great things for Counterparts!
This is where I belong. This is where we belong.
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Minnesota
Pretty damn solid for a metalcore band. I can see myself giving this some repeat spins.
Find me EVERYWHERE:
Colorado
Just bought this off of itunes after all the praise everyone has been throwing their way, wow, I like this a lot!
Lehigh Valley, PA
I'm so stoked on the fact that everyone digs this album so much.