Ain't Always Easy
Stone Broken
Metal maniacs, rejoice! I am proud to present to you: STONE BROKEN; signed via Spinefarm Records, hailing from England - performing Rock, on their 2nd album entitled: "Ain't Always Easy" (released 2nd March, 2018).
Since formation in 2013; the quintet in question have 1 album behind them. I am introduced to their 2nd album entitled: "Ain't Always Easy". 11 tracks ranging at around 38:58; STONE BROKEN arrange an intricately designed formula of hard-hitting Rock/Heavy Metal developments, opening up with the battering riff from "Worth Fighting For" the quartet blisteringly hammer with chugging, galloping melodies that contrast with consistently driven rhythms and distinctive harmonies. The band proficiently convey with bouncy aesthetics, crunchy flamboyancy and well-executed grooves with solid performances. My only gripe here is the simplicity of the Songwriting it is not bad - it just can come across as a little generic here and there.
Consisting of Rich Moss on vocals/guitar; the frontman dominately portrays an organically complex substance of clean, rough vocalization in the song "Let Me See It All" amalgamated with dynamic dexterity which is efficiently composed with diverse variety - showcasing a hint of fuzziness and progressively technical attributes. Chris Davis also on vocals/guitars provides similar characteristics, as in "Heartbeat Away" the band demonstrates their gritty heaviness while converged with anthemic juxtapostions. Powerhouse bassist Kieron Conroy distributes with audible abilities in "Home", embellishing on a grandiose manifestation of mid-tempo thumpiness and captivating creativity.
Robyn Haycock on drums pulverizes his set with pummelling stability in "Follow Me", while the band mostly supply a radio-friendly injection - they still flourish with thunderous mechanics that are admirably commendable. "I Believe" has that stereotypical flavour to it, relished with a polished assault of frenzied onslaught of rocking diligence. "Doesn't Matter" is where things start to seem samey, as the borderline foundation stems from straightforward elements that implements the weaker side of the band - though the sound production craftsmanship is still profusely robust, the songwriting could use a little more originality. "Anyone" has the same structure, it seems like I have been here before and does not impress me all too much.
"Just A Memory" clings on to the aforementioned, where the hymns are battle hardened - the overall ramification seems uninspired. "Otherside" rapidly swifts with nimble velocity, rampaging with a slight hook that continues to grab my attention. Concluding the record with "The Only Thing", STONE BROKEN certainly surprised me with this one.
Bottom line; while "Ain't Always Easy" was not massively engaging, it still had some enlightening fulfillments with adequate finesse and skill which Rock fans should enjoy excitingly - a unique discovery nonetheless.<
6 / 10
Had Potential
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production
"Ain't Always Easy" Track-listing:
1. Worth Fighting For
2. Let Me See It All
3 Heartbeat Away
4 Home
5. Follow Me
6. I Believe
7. Doesn't Matter
8. Anyone
9. Just A Memory
10. Otherside
11. The Only Thing
Stone Broken Lineup:
Rich Moss - Vocals, Guitar
Chris Davis - Guitar, Vocals
Kieron Conroy - Bass
Robyn Haycock - Drums, Vocals
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