Burnt By The Sun – The Perfect Is The Enemy Of The Good

[Russell]

Burnt By The Sun – The Perfect Is The Enemy Of The Good
Relapse Records - October 13th 2003
By Russell Garwood

Burnt By The Sun play dense, unremitting metalcore, with an aggressive technicality often found in the genre. Guitars courtesy of John Adubato and Chris Rascio show hardcore inspired discords, yet occasional metallic (and even melodic) riffs create a varied performance. Mike Olender (Endeavor) provides a caustic hardcore shout, which can become monotonous at times, but for the most part complements a harsh sound. The bass of Ted Patterson flows with multiple time changes, and drummer David Witte (Discordance Axis) completes a tight rhythms section. His precise fills and crushing beats display competent musicianship if not a groundbreaking style.

Such criticism applies to the band’s sound in general – it is well performed, yet slightly lacking in originality. This said, the music is hardly generic - just of a genre which is rapidly becoming saturated. The production, courtesy of Matt Bayles is excellent, despite regular dynamic change, while the songwriting can be slightly lacking in cohesion. This is hardly surprising considering the style, and overall “The Perfect Is The Enemy Of The Good” is a solid album, which many metallic hardcore fans will enjoy.