Atreyu - A Death Grip on Yesterday

Atreyu’s fourth album A Death Grip on Yesterday, stands on its own when compared to the band's previous releases. Continuing with their unique blend of metal/screamo a-la Agnostic Front and Hatebreed, this band has as much energy as a toddler on a sugar high. The album starts off with the seemingly unpolished track "Creature," but quickly redeems itself with “Ex’s and Oh’s,” marked by metal guitar riffs and the dual vocals of Alex Varkatzas and Brandon Saller. The angsty, tender lyrics of “Our Sick Story So Far,” and “Shameful,” bring the album to fruition. Anthemic and rhythmic, the sixth track “The Theft,” breaks up the album with a harmonic break and an almost emo-composition. But never fear, songs like “We Stand Up,” and “Your Private War,” bring back the almost incoherent lyrics, strong bass lines, and enough testosterone to fuel a packed concert hall. [www.atreyurock.com]