Shatterpoint - Dead Precedence   

Strong performances but lacking direction

With Dead Precedence, Canada's Shatterpoint release their first full length album to the world, but it reveals a band in the throws of an identity crisis.

There are a variety of styles that can be noticed throughout the album ranging from modern thrash to metalcore, but ultimately the band never seems to make a decision about what style they actually want to play which leads to a feeling of confusion and inaccessibility.

There is no denying that there are some genuinely foot tapping or head nod worthy moments but these moments occur far too infrequently to have any lasting impact. The album probably would fare better had it not been nearly as long as it is. With 15 tracks running at a total of 69 minutes it feels as though you have listened to half an album in the time it would take you to listen to two when Dead Precedence is finished. I found it difficult to get through more than half a dozen songs at a time without losing interest and searching for either the stop or the skip button.

One area that is top notch is the lead guitar work which is equally impressive both in the shredding solos and within the more relaxed, melodic moments. Though fantastic lead work is always welcome and can add a great deal to the overall quality of an album, by itself it simply isn't enough to make an album great.

The music is somewhat technical but is far from being overly flashy. In spite of this it is clear that the band knows their way around their instruments due to the tightness of the performances on the album. There is some nice double kick work from drummer Steve Mitchell and some equally tight rhythmic work from guitarists Shane Drake and Greg Wright. Also worthy of mention is the vocal performance of Drake who brings a variety of approaches to the table.

Fans of this kind of material (i.e. modern Testament) are likely to find Dead Precedence to be a decent album that one the one hand is good but is also equally uninspired, though definitely worthy of a listen. The ability of the band to play their instruments will never come in to question, though their ability to write consistent and focussed songs certainly will.

In the end time will tell if Shatterpoint are able to find the identity they so desperately need.

(Power Play Records)

Added: September 21st 2007
Reviewer: Michael O'Brien
Score:
Related Link: Official Website
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