Label: Boomtown

In a world of throw-away pop artists and disposable music, it is reassuring to see that Australian hardcore is still thriving.  Brisbane hardcore boys The Amity Affliction have come a long way since their first EP in 2005, and Youngbloods is evidence of just how far.  The album sees the band’s triumphant return to the hardcore scene, a follow up to the reasonably impressive 2008 release Severed Ties.  Youngbloods is an improvement in every respect - their most melodic, most engaging and most powerful effort yet. Produced by legend Machine (Lamb of God, Mindless Self Indulgence), Youngbloods is a gem.  A triumph for a band who remain one of the hardest touring acts on the Australian scene, Youngbloods has already been well received amongst fans and critics alike, sparking rave reviews and sold out shows across the country.

Opening explosively with the killer “I Hate Hartley”, the smoother and overall better produced sound of the album is instantly noticeable.  The dual vocals of Joel Birch and Ahren Stringer create a perfect mesh of harsh screams and beautifully clean chorus vocals, and Youngbloods displays a lyrical refinement less evident in the band’s previous releases.  Focusing on personal experiences conveyed with unexpected poetic finesse, the lyrics are insightful and often uplifting. Title track “Youngbloods” has its highlight in a defiant scream of “Fuck the reaper!”, while “Fire or Knife” is an anthem of non-believing (“There’s no god who can hear you/ just a sky full of stars”). Every track is impressive in its own right, and with the addition of ex-Getaway Plan bassist Clint Splattering, Youngbloods brings a heavier and more refined sound than ever before.

Even taking into account all of the changes this album has brought, it is in no way overproduced, keeping a violent raw energy in The Amity Affliction’s characteristic blend of hard-hitting melodies and powerful lyrics.  Seeing the band evolve into something slightly more commercially accessible while keeping their aggressive hardcore sound, Youngbloods is the perfect blend of elegance and intensity. Australian hardcore is some of the best in the world, and The Amity Affliction are at the forefront of something great.

By Lucy Valentine