Killswitch Engage – “As Daylight Dies” [Album Review]

Killswitch Engage… yet another Metalcore band. Now a lot of readers are probably thinking “Oh shit… not more of these bands.” Well you don’t need to be thinking that about Killswitch Engage. These guys kick ass! Straight out of Westfield, Massachusetts, this band have paved their way from that town and into the spotlight, dragging millions of fans along for the ride. Currently, the band consists of Howard Jones (Vocals), Adam Dutkiewicz (Guitar), Joel Stroelzel (Guitar), Mike D’Antonio (Bass), and Justin Foley (Drums).

First up on the album is “Daylight Dies.” The intro is pretty creepy and sort of reminds me of a record player turning on… or something like that. Once the instrumental turns on, the track darkens, and becomes even more disturbing. Adam and Joel play harmonies together throughout the song, one of Killswitch Engage’s signatures, making the song pleasing to the listener’s ears.

Fifth on the album is the single “My Curse,” which I’m sure most readers have already heard. If not, then go download this track immediately! The combination of harmonics, complex single-note rhythms, and power chords are what makes Killswitch Engage so amazing. I also find it really interesting how well Howard’s vocals fit to the playing style of the band.

Ninth on the album is “Break The Silence.” The complex guitar work in this track is superb, the timing on the drums are out of this world, and the bass is spot on perfect! What more could you want in a song? One more thing you could want is good vocals, and of course Howard Jones performs to his best abilities, delivering a nice kick to the jaw. The harmony that Adam and Joel seem to have while playing their instruments left me speechless. It’s amazing what two individuals can accomplish when they think on the same level.

And there you guys have it! I highly recommend this album to any and all Killswitch fans (and anyone who wants some sheer balls-to-the-wall wailing metal). I’m gonna have to give this album a 9.6/10. Dudes… fucking stellar job!

Track Listing:

01. Daylight Dies
02. This is Absolution
03. The Arms of Sorrow
04. Unbroken
05. My Curse
06. For You
07. Still Beats Your Name
08. Eye of the Storm
09. Break The Silence
10. Desperate Times
11. Reject Yourself

Run Time: 43:39
Release Date: November 21, 2006