Album Review

The Color Morale – Hold On Pain Ends

• 1st Sep 2014

Fearless Records have birthed another metal-core gem; this time it’s the much anticipated fourth studio album ‘Hold On Pain Ends’ from the Rockford IL five-piece The Color Morale. Unlike the abundance of bands that have decided to re-invent the wheel, The Color Morale have stuck to what they know, with this record being very much a continuity of previous effort Know Hope – both instrumentally and in message.

From first track ‘Damnaged’ it’s easy to be lulled into a false sense of security and presume this band are just like every other metalcore outfit ever – which, to be honest, wouldn’t be a bad thing if that’s your bag. They’ve got the heavy riffs, aggressive, rhythmic shouts and harmonic vocals down to a tee – hell, they’ve even got meaty breakdowns. Initially, ‘Outer Demons’ is very much the same, but this is where you’d be proven wrong – the chorus is so catchy and uplifting that it could rival most of the current pop-chart.

Admittedly, The Color Morale aren’t worlds apart from their peers with this release. In fact, this record stays true to prime metalcore structures and conventions, but it’s a great introduction for new fans with a radio-friendly approach to genre. This is an interesting album and lyrically it’s consistent in carrying a powerfully emotive message; Hold On Pain Ends goes out to anyone that’s ever felt scared, insecure or alone – which is a theme we can all relate to.

– Mercedes Brown

Venue: Hold On Pain Ends
Support Band: Fearless Records