“The Elevator Pitch” Ep
Self-Released/Independent
2014
Forming in 2003, Maine’s TOO LATE THE HERO has steadily climbed the ranks of the post-Hardcore/Metalcore ladder to reach soaring heights. Already touring stateside with LAMB OF GOD, and releasing three full lengths, the band has now issued their second EP in, “The Elevator Pitch” which features six short blasts of energetic bombast that you can get at your price on their bandcamp! Just click on the player at the end of this review.
“Rooster Cogburn” starts the proceedings quite nicely, immediately taking charge with a nice array of cleanly sung melodic sections when vocalist, Jared Wilbur, isn’t spewing forth his “guts”. Polished and cleanly produced the song is representative of the EP as a whole; aggressive, jarring and frantically played guitar riffs dance through hoops while the drums are precise, courtesy of Aaron Caple, offering fans ample reason to “dive into the pit”!
As the EP unfolds, there is a sense or familiarity throughout that renders the experience slightly generic. Well played and highly moving, “Taste of Iron”, “The Elevator Pitch” and “Eminent Philosopher/Cannibal” all carry a sense of rebellion but unfortunately follow a formulaic pattern of angst-ridden verses that are met with the “yearning chorus”. However, there are unique moments where gang vocals creep their way into the fold which is interesting enough to maybe be explored further?
For the average Hot Topic fan, the EP may appeal to their sensibilities but those looking for something outside the box or something with a bit more teeth, TOO LATE THE HERO may need to investigate other territories to differentiate themselves from the pack. Granted, Wilbur’s vocals do lend a dramatic feel (and definitely are a highlight) while the solos may be exploited more to garner the group room to explore more possibilities.
Standout Tracks: “Rooster Cogburn”, “Artistic License to Kill”
7/10
Chris
