Album Review: Counterparts - The Difference Between Hell And Home

Album Rating: A

The Difference Between Hell and Home, the latest effort from Canadian hardcore outfit, Counterparts, combines a unique cocktail of masterful syncopation, brutal breakdowns, memorable leads, and powerful lyrics. It is a concise album that does not overstay its welcome, consisting of eleven tracks and clocking in at thirty-seven minutes.

The first track, "Lost," begins with an unforgiving force driven by lyrics about dealing with adversity and destitution. Brenden Murphy, the frontman of this dynamic crew, pours his heart out from the get-go: "As far back as I can remember, the failure was always there. It was the only real companion that I have ever had." For anyone who has ever been down a dark and complicated path, The Difference Between Hell and Home will walk right beside you, reminding you that you are not alone.

The heart of the album is where the band shines. Tracks such as "Debris," "Outlier," and "Witness" will pound your frustrations to the ground with ruthless snare, roaring vocals, and blazing fast riffs with dramatic leads that will tear at your heartstrings. One highlight that most listeners will notice is the smooth transitions between songs. The chorus on "Cursed" is simply awesome. It comes at you like a bullet with a choppy, heated guitar and explosive drums that seem to never miss a beat. The song is deeply personal, delving into the band's personal beliefs.

It is an album that is relatable and breathes with life. It is purely human. It has an all-embracing attitude that begs to be listened to anyone on the search for something greater than themselves. An addictive and brilliant album that gets more intense with each listen.

Track List:

1. Lost
2. Ghost
3. Debris
4. Outlier
5. Witness
6. Decay
7. Compass
8. Wither
9. Cursed
10. Slave
11. Soil

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