Reviewed by Ian Webber

With any release in which Josh Scogin is involved you know exactly what you are in store for. The former Norma Jean frontman does not disappoint with the fourth release from the band he has now headed up for the last seven years. From the first few seconds, The Chariot confront you with paint stripping vocals that howl and scratch through some abrasive and incessant metal. The opening track, "Evans Perks", is just what you would expect from the Georgia-based outfit. Feedback screams over tight rhythms and chugging guitars, but as with previous releases the group never settle in safe territory. Experimental sounds and samples add to the several timing shifts and stop start riffing. The music is high energy and skilfully delivered in the 10 short tracks on this recording. There are very few sections that labour and detract from an impressive recording and although this is at times a challenging listen, the quality and variety on offer grows on you and will not disappoint any fans of unrelenting, aggressive metalcore. My only gripes would be that at just over 30 minutes this album is a little on the short side and at times the lyrics and themes covered in the recording are difficult to follow. With 'Long Live', The Chariot have produced a set of songs that should see them continue to find new fans as well as please loyal supporters.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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