Genre: Hardcore
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© 2002 Universal Records
AllMusic Review by Jason D. Taylor
Perseverance marks Hatebreed's major-label debut,
despite being an integral part of the hardcore community for years. It
also marks Hatebreed's first full-length album of new material since
their 1997 debut, Satisfaction Is the Death of Desire. While most would
expect that after five years some growth would be merited, listening to
Perseverance one would have a hard time telling that such a period of
time passed between albums. The album does indeed sound much better from
a production standpoint, but considering that Hatebreed went from
Victory, a prominent independent hardcore label, to Universal Records,
which may very well be the largest record label in the world, that is to
be expected. If nothing else, on this album Hatebreed manages to sound
even more angry at the world then one would think possible. Hatebreed
also seems to have taken on some new influences, as their excessive bond
with the likes of Slipknot and Slayer has really focused the group's
music on a heavier metalcore vein. The hardcore transitions are abundant
and enhance almost every song contained on the album, one thing that is
sure to incite riots amongst the moshers at live shows. Jamey Jasta's
guttural hollering remains consistent, throatier than ever before, and
it never ceases to assault the listener. Perseverance is not an album
for the weak and fragile. Lyrically, Jasta seems to have a bone to pick
with an assortment of unnamed characters, as almost every song on
Perseverance is made up of lyrics that communicate the fact that
Hatebreed will remain despite any ill words or empty threats. This
subject matter goes hand in hand with the album's title and is easy to
relate to. "Proven" kicks the album off to a ferocious start, and from
there Hatebreed's intensity only increases. Slayer's very own Kerry King
even offers his guitar skills on "Final Prayer," which is most
definitely heavy metal, to say the very least. Hatebreed's determination
to remain unchanged musically is inspiring; even though they have
matured to a major label they lose none of their anger, yet their
indifference to musical evolution may also prove to be a hindrance as
well. Perseverance is an excellent introduction for those who have not
yet experienced Hatebreed and matches the group's debut -- possibly even
bettering past efforts. While Hatebreed doesn't disappoint, one may for
the first time begin to worry about the group's longevity if they
cannot broaden their musical horizons with future efforts.
tags: hatebreed, perseverance, 2002, flac,
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