xLOOKING FORWARDx “The Path We Tread”
Maryland’s xLOOKING FORWARDx have been a familiar name in the MD/DC/VA scene for years and after a couple of successful releases on Blood and Ink, they’re prime for a breakout release on the almighty Facedown Records. These guys personify the category of Christian Hardcore. Strongly influenced by their religious beliefs, and an overall infectious positive attitude The Path We Tread is part virtuous observance, and part passionate thrash. As I noted in a previous occasion, this album is like listening to the GORILLA BISCUITS… but with songs about God. A four piece, xLOOKING FORWARDx are not exactly a beacon of technical superiority. Rather, this 19 song, 29 minute outing is in the vein of SICK OF IT ALL’s classic Blood, Sweat & No Tears. With barely a moment to catch your breath, this straight-ahead offering of ‘core breaks only for swift breakdowns, two-step participation, and fist-in-the-air gang vocal attacks. Even with only one guitar, there’s a lot of lateral movement in every song and enough melody to make more than a handful of these songs stick. “Heroes of Your Revolution” is the band’s most musically accomplished tune while its lyrics question the practice of putting bands on a so-called pedestal with fans emulating their every move and look. “For Those Who Believe” is a dedication to the band’s longstanding fans, as well as a shout-out to those who also make their commitment clear to higher powers. “Good Intentions” is a 90 second dose of balance, blasting into those who would prefer to use their spirituality for ignorantjudgment rather than understanding or openness. Preachy, close-minded, and shallow, xLOOKING FORWARDx are most certainly not. Plain and simple, xLOOKING FORWARDx is an inspired band, and The Path We Tread doesn’t put up with weakness of any sort. This is by far their best sounding release to date, and a true musical homage to traditional in-your-face hardcore. When you need to shake the metalcore cobwebs out of your system, The Path We Tread is an easy route back to square one… as long as you don’t mind the whole Christian thing.
Facedown
