Review: Hopesfall "Magnetic North"

The new album from Hopesfall pushes some limits, but accepts some as well. I have been listening to and following these boys for some time, and the most evident thing that shines through on this album is: (drum roll) maturity. Hopesfall has made a significant breakthrough in letting people know that they are serious, and that they're doing what they want now. This is not to say that Hopesfall has been a sellout band, but as with every band, I get the feeling from their other albums, that they were at least in a small way, attempting to write for the fans. This time, they're writing for themselves.

First of all, let it be known that I bought this CD completely on a hunch. I had heard Hopesfall's other stuff, so I gave this a gander. Upon the first sonic imprint, I had an epiphany. This was a new band, and It was surprising how quickly the realization came to me. From the rapid, stony bass drum to the frantic vocals of Jay Forrest, it is a completely new experience. This is the song that sucked me in and left me wanting more, so it's a good starting point. It's a phenomenal song, but even if you aren't particularly partial, there are tons of new elements waiting right around the corner, so don't give up on it.

2. Well, any definition of good has to be relative, so...
let's stack Magnetic North up to the guys' other releases

The Satellite Years: First of all, if you're looking for the Satellite years, part two, you won't find it within the confines of Magnetic North. What you will find are the best parts of the Satellite years blended with a newer, catchier sound. I would even go to say that Magnetic North is a cleaner album than The Satellite Years, but if you're looking for that progressive experience, you're not going to find in with Magnetic North.

A-Types: Magnetic North is closest to A-Types in terms of song structure, guitars, and rhythms, but don't get me wrong, this isn't A-Types. When I first bought A-Types, I was expecting The Satellite Years, Part II, and because it wasn't that, I didn't like it as much then, as I do now. Hopesfall broke all boundaries when they released A-Types. It showed that post-hardcore can indeed be catchy and heavy at the same time. All in all, a great album. If you need a part II from any previous album (like I did), It would hands down be A-Types. The main differences being that while A-Types took you to the atmosphere, Magnetic North takes you to the stratosphere, and while A-Types delivered a steady stream of catchy rock, Magnetic North will take you for an unexpected spin every once in a while.

Magnetic North, from Hopesfall is a terrific album. The vocals are catchy, but honest. The guitars are heavy, yet spacey, the drums are heavy, but sullen, and the bass give it just that boost it needs to bring the entire piece together. Altogether, Hopesfall has always been a good band, but they're showing me now the capability of being a great band.