| Sputnikmusic |
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep". Scott Adams.It is fair to state that Emery's 2007 release 'I'm Only A Man' ruffled a few feathers. Looking to tap into any kind of popularity, it was a wild mix of everything from mainstream rock to immature electronica-infused pop. It hit a few targets simply because it aimed at so many. Yet, when it missed, it was way off the mark due to factors such as lazy songwriting, simplified musicianship and an over-abundance of gimmicks. Predictably, greater success did not follow and the quintet returned to their signature sound on promising 2008 EP 'While Broken Hearts Prevail'. Seven months later, Emery release their fourth LP '...In Shallow Seas We Sail'. One of the stories of 2009, it not only improves on all of the band's prior collaborations, it is - in this reviewer's opinion - the album of the year! "A man who has committed a mistake and doesn't correct it is committing another mistake". Confucius. Frantic opener 'Cutthroat Collapse' acts as a statement of intent. Beginning with barely decipherable screams, it soon transforms in trademark fashion with Toby Morrell & Devin Shelton's dueling clean vocals taking center stage. Equally as important, Shelton & Matt Carter provide energetic guitar work which is simultaneously intricate and melodic, meaning the track works on multiple levels. While only 'The Smile, The Face' and 'Piggy Bank Lies' approach the hardcore heaviness of the opener, the album is in no way poorer for it. Morrell has clearly come out of the 'I'm Only A Man' experiment a better vocalist. Look no further than his smooth and dreamy contributions to the catchy 'Churches and Serial Killers' & optimistic 'A Sin To Hold On To', which make one wonder why he has not been called up by many a pop act to contribute a verse or two....full text |
| Blogcritics |
| After releasing some of my favorite songs to date, such as "The Party Song," and "Rock-N-Rule," I did not think that Emery would top their 2007 full length, I'm Only a Man. I was wrong. In fact, ...In Shallow Seas We Sail includes some of their best music to date. Produced by Aaron Sprinkle and released on Tooth & Nail Records, Emery's thirteen-track album leaves the synthesizers in the studio, focusing on a glorious return to their heavy roots. Prior to their June 2, 2009 release, Emery was fighting for their own unique sound. Their albums' consisted of two themes; standard spiritual themes and transparent post-rock. ...In Shallow Seas We Sail proved to their audience that Emery was prevalent once again with their seamless sound. They were able to unite the post-hardcore screams with beautiful cleans in a way that brings their fans to nothing short of amazement. Released less than one year later than their 2008 EP While Broken Hearts Prevail, ...In Shallow Seas We Sail allows for some progressive melodic moments to flaunt, and emphasize their hardcore foundation. The result is magnificent....full text |
| Absolutepunk |
| After the hot tranny mess that was I’m Only A Man, and the inconsistent EP While Broken Hearts Prevail, it was probably fairly easy to forget about Emery. But that EP was a crucial stepping-stone to bringing the post-hardcore quintet back to prominence. Laying down tracks such as “The Smile, The Face,” and “Edge of The World” proved that Emery could still deliver quality tracks. And that they do, plus more, on their fourth album, …In Shallow Seas We Sail. Masterfully produced by Aaron Sprinkle, the thirteen track album features crisp musicianship, incorporating the melodic heaviness that drew us to love Emery in the first place. “Cutthroat Collapse” opens up the album in the same vibe fan favorite “Walls” opened up 2004’s The Weak’s End. Frantic screaming paced by urgent guitar chords pace the track, while vocalists Toby Morell, Devin Shelton, and Josh Head prove that few bands can harmonize as well as this trio. What follows next is an album that breeds consistency, mirroring itself with the tone and style that The Weak’s End and The Question possessed. “Curbside Goodbyes” features the trademark Emery song pattern: bruising screams, melodic verses, and crushing breakdowns. What is apparent on this track is the return of the passion that the last album severely lacked. “Inside Our Skin” soars with piercing guitar chords, as it really showcases the vocal talents of Morell and Shelton. The point is driven home with the climatic outro, utilizing the screaming talent within the band....full text |
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"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep". Scott Adams.