ArmsBendBack – “Self-Titled”

August 2009, vocalist Mike Coasey unveiled that Armsbendback were reforming and releasing an album later in the year. As a huge fan of their past release The Waiting Room I was excited to hear some new music after a six year breakup. Three months later the band released their second full length, a self-titled effort through Trustkill Records.

To keep with the times, this was a digital-only release. As a fan of physical CDs I wasn’t too excited about this, since I love owning a hard copy. Along with the music, artwork is a big part of owning a physical version. Maybe I am getting old, but I like a large imagery, not just a small icon on my screen. For those who share my passion never fear, when you download Armsbendback you receive digital artwork. The imagery was created by guitarist Carson Slovak who has also designed for his second band Century and other metal acts. Now onto the music…

After a six year hiatus, the band hasn’t lost their touch. The writing is very much like their past work but more mature. As a big fan, I was very impressed with every song. Carson Slovak is still playing heavy guitar parts which flow into melodic choruses. Brad Sloan once again supports the guitar with his bass playing keeping the heavy parts heavy and giving strength to the melodic parts. Accenting these melodies on drums would be none other than Andrew Kegerise. Last and definitely not least in this quartet of musicians is Mike Coasey with his distinguished vocals. Much like The Waiting Room he has once again sung through every song with his low sluring voice and on occasion shouting thus projecting the mood.

Every track on Armsbendback is phenomenal. Songs that stand out for me are “Hyper Real”, “Dead Or Barely Breathing” and “Future Whores In America”. Each of these songs are pumping with copious amounts of energy from start to finish. These tracks truly accent the sound of Armsbendback and what they’re all about. Another song worth mentioning is “Don’t Stand So Close To Me”, a cover of a song by The Police. This cover originally debuted on a 2005 Trustkill Takeover CD. It’s very catchy and I am sure The Police will be pleased with it.

The reformation of Armsbendback was a great decision by all four musicians. If anyone was a fan in the past they will definitely be pleased with every song. Go download this album, check out the great artwork and rock out! Fans of Finch, Eighteen Visions, Hopesfall and Memphis May Fire will enjoy this band.

Track Listing:

01. Where Is My Bourbon
02. It’s Nothing New
03. We Can Change It
04. Take All The Time You Need
05. Megan Fox
06. The Queen Is Dead
07. Hyper Real
08. Dead Or Barely Breathing
09. Solaris
10. Future Whores Of America
11. Don’t Stand So Close To Me

Run Time: 40:07
Released Date: 11.10.2009

Check out the song: “Take All The Time You Need”