Comments
Ascendicate, The
The Ascendicate
To Die As Kings
After changing their name and inking a contract with Solid State Records, The Ascendicate (or the band formerly known as the7method) officially returns to the Christian scene with a renewed vigor on their third album, To Die As Kings. Instead of savoring the nu-metal flavor that earned them so many accolades on their sophomore set, Roses Like Razorblades in 2005, the North Carolina quintet integrates hardcore and subtle punk rock elements into the blend. There is a massive array of ferocious growls that embody tracks like “Scottish” and “Pride Of Brutish,” but it’s great, because the words are actually understandable and the intense vocals compliment the heavy instrumentation, which usually happens during the verses. By the time the hook comes in anyway, The Ascendicate transforms into a suave, melodic, harmonizing machine. While the hardcore influence is apparent, it dwindles at times and is replaced by a melodic tone, thus allowing “You And Me” and “One Day Without You” to further separate the quintet from other musically-barbaric bands within the genre. The Ascendicate has altered their style and they may appear a bit sloppy, but these kings are proving they have the wisdom to change with the times and stay creative in a scene full of copycats. [Solid State] Bear Frazer
This album review was originally published in the March/April Issue (#136) of HM Magazine. Order the Print Version to read tons more reviews. You can order the Print Version of this issue online or find this issue on newsstands. You can NOW read this entire feature in the online edition of HM Magazine. If you're a subscriber, you get a free online/digital subscription with your print subscription. You can purchase a single online/digital edition (which includes access to back issues) for only $1.99. A one-year digital-only subscription can be had for only $6.
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