Review
Red's "Until We Have Faces" is a testament to the band's evolution and musical prowess. Released in early 2011, this third studio effort showcases the group as a tighter four-piece unit, following guitarist Jasen Rauch's departure. Despite the lineup change, Rauch's songwriting contributions still shine through, adding depth to the album's sound. Producer Rob Graves helmed this project, which blends post-grunge's emotional core with a hefty dose of metal edge, resulting in Red's most polished work yet.
The album dives deep into the struggle of finding one's true identity, a theme that hits home for many listeners. Red's signature sound - robust guitars and memorable melodies - is front and center, but there's a newfound maturity in the lyrics and composition. The addition of orchestral elements brings a beautiful contrast to the band's hard-hitting style, creating a sonic landscape that's both intense and intricate. Each track on "Until We Have Faces" serves a purpose, coming together to form a cohesive and powerful musical experience that reminds listeners they're not alone in their personal battles.
Game Plan: For the full "Until We Have Faces" experience, I'd recommend finding a quiet spot, putting on some quality headphones, and letting the album wash over you from start to finish. The orchestral elements really shine through on a good sound system, so crank it up if you can. This is the kind of album that rewards multiple listens, so don't be afraid to dive back in and discover new layers each time. - Peter
