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This August the metalcore band Still Remains released its second album with Roadrunner Records, The Serpent.  Though it has recently undergone a change of members (the new members are Ben Schauland, keyboards and Steve Hetland, bass) the band hasn’t lost any of its vision or collaborative strength.

Serving as an introduction to the album, the title track The Serpent is a demonstration of their unity.  As the music expands, layer upon layer, the musicians’ masterful technical abilities are obvious as they communicate with each other and their listeners a great dramatic crescendo that pushes through the rest of the album.

The featured Stay Captive is thoughtfully introduced and maintains an exciting drive.  The rhythm is thick and the vocal harmonies tight, very like Tool in effect.  Constantly evolving musical ideas and rhythms demand respect, including the surprising use of a hemiola and the attractive melodies that are hardened by the lyrics and speed. 

The expansive Maria is a long, slow breath.  The restful melody provides a break from the harder rhythms and sounds of the previous tracks, though no less intense.  The lyrics and emotional communication of the music are just as strong as before, and the maturity of musicianship and rhythmic control of the band’s members is impressive.

Dancing with the Enemy evolves from a short intro, includes attractive vocal melodies and harmonies and again moves through several clever compositional and rhythmic devices, keeping the listeners on their toes before it ends abruptly, leaving us wanting more. 

Drawing from a host of influences but developing an integrated sound of their own, Still Remains has become a band of polished mature musicians that deserve their day in the sun.