After fans anxiously waited to hear new songs, Issues, partially from Atlanta, Georgia and Los Angeles, California, recently released their debut EP Black Diamonds. I was just as eager to get my hands on this EP as other fans were, but to my surprise, this EP was not what was expected. Black Diamonds was actually quite disappointing, but there are some notable parts of this album that deserve recognition.
Labeled as a metal core band, you would be surprised at the opening track Black Diamonds. This introduction kicks off with a low-pitched "We keep the cash on deck/swerved out black-black diamond" followed by a variation of dub step elements and hi hats. Shortly after, we transition into the next song with Michael Bohn screaming "Wrath to the industry!".
The interesting tidbit about Issues is they attempt to combine metal and hip-hop elements into their style. Although a daring move for the band, they do an okay job fusing the elements together. I use the word "okay", because there is definitely room for improvement in this area. I give Issues major props for giving a go at throwing variety into their songs but the guitars and drums genuinely sound similar in every song. To most people, that would make this EP a bore to listen to. It seems like Issues spent too much time trying to make sure they had the variety they were going for in their songs instead of putting the time and effort towards lyrical composure and structure.
There is one song that really stands out on this EP titled "Princeton Ave". As stated by Tyler Carter, "The point of this song is to shed light on the fact the each generation being corrupted is becoming a never-ending style. Cease production of a destructive breed, seek help cause your pride only makes you weak. Make a change now, or it will just continue". The lyrical content of this song are the strongest out of all the tracks on the EP. The notable element in this song is how screamer Michael Bohn unleashes his screams on a stripped down piano instrumental. Last time I heard someone scream over a slow instrumental was in Bring Me The Horizon's song "Don't Go". I was definitely impressed that Issues attempted to do that, they did a solid job! I recommend listening for yourself!
Overall, this EP was decent, but I know Issues has a lot of potential they have not yet put to the test and I know they can do much better! As a listener, I will stick around for their first album release to see their progression. Issues is composed of Tyler Carter, Michael Bohn, AJ Robello, Tyler Acord, and Case Snedecor and are signed to Velocity/Rise Records. There have not been any announcements as to when recording of their first album will occur, but they will be hitting the road for a full U.S. tour at the end of January with Silverstein, Like Moths To Flames, Secrets, and Glass Cloud