CODESEVEN have been a “buzz” band of sorts lately in hardcore circles, but are still not a band that seems to be too “hip with the kids.” Their previous full length, “Division of Labor” was an extraordinarily original take on the metallic hardcore sound and unfortunately, I don’t think these guys ever got the kind of recognition they deserve from that release. But now people are talking and the message boards are alive, and the biggest question that’s being posed is whether CODESEVEN pulled a “CAVE IN” with their brand new release, “The Rescue.” While it would be hard to argue that these guys weren’t influenced at all by the aforementioned in pursuing a style change, CODESEVEN clearly aren’t jumping on the prog-rock-core bandwagon because one well known band has succeeded in following that path. “The Rescue” is a beautiful disc, one that builds up and breaks down songs, one that teases you into comfortable submission, and one that knows how to forge a tight-knit sound. The first few songs on here are of the passive-agressive variety, tense, but not quite loud – working in sublties to paint a smooth picture. The final four tracks though feed off this style and turn it up a notch with each successive song. Although the breaks between the songs are noticeable, “The Rescue” operates like a grand scheme, with each tune merely acting as merely a scene in a larger act. As the guitars continue to rise on the final tracks, “Give it to Us,” and “Obsolete Folksong” one wonders about the looming point of release – will CODESEVEN blastoff into a fierce culmination of fireworks, or will the energy merely subside? Actually, both endings occur, and the result is breathless. As moving as “The Rescue” is, a somewhat weak production style keeps CODESEVEN sounding less confident about their abilities. While the songs are no doubt, well-composed, I can’t help but feel like these guys are playing in the background of my speakers. Fortunately, turning up the volume a few notches helps this release come more alive. But maybe that’s the point – maybe “The Rescue” isn’t supposed to be that kind of thing you blast from your car stereo or listen to as a motivation tool – perhaps it’s greatest assest is the way the music sneaks up on you, especially on the later tracks. I think I’d give a tooth to see these guys live again and watch them pull this off.

The Music Cartel

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