Corpus Christi - A Feast For Crows

Artist: Corpus Christi
Album: A Feast For Crows
Release Date: 7/6/10
Label: Victory Records

Things can take some time to grow on you. In the case of music, some albums take some time to get into and really enjoy. An example of this is A Feast For Crows, the sophomore album from metalcore group Corpus Christi. Their name translates from Latin to "the body of Christ," which shows through their music. A Feast For Crows took a little time for me to get into, considering that I wasn't into their debut effort, The Darker Shades of White. However with this new release, the band has reformed their lineup, replacing nearly every member except one, for a heavier sound. The clean vocals are still there, provided by guitarist Jarrod Christman, the only original member, and certainly have a unique edge to them.

The band's faith is immediately showcased at the start of the album with the intro track, "The Red Horse Is Upon Us." An instrumental track, it builds up into an eerie voice that reads a verse from Revelation. Then the chaos erupts. "A Portrait of Modern Greed" is contained with fast riffs and deep growls that start off the song.   A theme about the problems of pride and self-greed is found in the song "Monuments," which certainly has a good message. The fast paced and fun "Little Miss Let You Know" seems to have a Southern metal influence and feel to it, making for an enjoyable listen.

The highlight of the album, as well as the deepest track, is "(Seeing You Again) For The First Time." The voice of man is represented by the soft piano laden clean vocals, but lead into the voice of God, which is portrayed by some harsh, brutal screaming. "I am the King of Glory, who was and is to come, I am the way, the truth, the life, Almighty Holy One." These are just some of the lyrics heard and are easily the most meaningful off of A Feast For Crows.

There are a few parts that do come out a bit immature, such as in the song "Blood in the Water." The breakdown seems a bit shallow, with the lyrics being "Here come the sharks!" Otherwise, the song isn't the best work by the band, but still has a message of desperation behind it.

Rating: 7/10 The newest album from Corpus Christi titled A Feast For Crows is an enjoyable listen. Although there is a shallow feel at times, the band still shows hope, which is contained in their message. It has grown on me after further listens and I have enjoyed it. Although not the best metal album I've heard this year, A Feast For Crows can still be a fun listen.

Tracklisting:

1. The Red Horse Is Upon Us
2. A Portrait of Modern Greed
3. Monuments
4. Betrayed Redemption
5. Little Miss Let You Know
6. Windwalker
7. Broken Man
8. Blood In The Water
9. Invictus
10. (Seeing You Again) For The First Time
11. Shepherds In Sheep's Clothing