Misery Signals - Ultraviolet

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Formed in 2000 as a hard metalcore band, Misery Signals, four albums later have fully engulfed themselves into the melodic metal genre. The Canadian band’s fourth album, “Ultraviolet”, comes about after several line-up changes. Finally coming full-circle to rest back on its original members. “Ultraviolet” is an album full of passion and lyrics written with hope, yet set to the stage of a very full-bodied vocal range from Jesse Zaraska. Melodic notes marry heavy, hard vocals; to create a sound that is an experience all of its own. “Ultaviolet” has melancholy song titles that aptly match my semi-morose mood as I write. This year has been a very tough one for many; and I lost my boyfriend to Epilepsy, and my Mom to a heart condition. When one’s thoughts are chaotic, it can be hard to pin them down to write. However, this album perfectly matches my mood and somehow helps. It is far easier to write about an album that one relates to.

“The Tempest” - Hard, fast, and unforgiving, Jesse dives right in with his powerful voice. A fast beat from beginning, throughout the song. This is a song that sets your heart beating faster, and catches you breathless with its force. This is a well put together song, each piece fits where it should. And…. in the tone of the song, ends with a very emotional and strong tune on the guitar. This song, it’s kind of like falling in love for the first time. Happens fast, takes your breath away, and leaves you desiring more. “Sunlifter” - Artfully played guitar notes accentuate the beat lusciously. Confident, and sure notes played jointly in time with amazing bass guitar, and drums. The energy between the band members is palatable. This is a melodic and hardcore song. A definite jump from their metalcore roots.  “Through Veils of Blue Fire” - By far, my favorite beat of any song throughout the album. The intervals between the faster guitar notes are killer. Definitely have me nodding my head in time and taping my feet. Let us also acknowledge how awesome of a song name that is.

“Cascade Locks” - Softly plucked notes on guitar call to you like Medusa’s song. Irresistible, leading you to the dark despair of face melting metal. Their deceptive niceness prepares you naught for the vocal rage swept upon you. Like the seas when they are tormented, waves of violence and rage. Amidst the soft beauty. Much like the siren's song. Soft and deadly. Lulling you to a sense of wonder before promptly dropping you off in hell. “Some Dreams” - A song whose very title, the connotations from such a name make me reminisce. Lost love, and a world torn by hate. How important love really is amidst this world, when all else fails love remains. This is a great song with a great beat, and thought-provoking lyrics. Isn’t that what any song could hope to be?

This is an album worth listening to. It has a little bit of an old school progressive sound combined with melodic loveliness. I certainly hope we hear from Misery Signals again in the future too. I do believe after all this time; they have nailed their sound. It only gets better from here. Although, in my search for things to write about the band, I had a hard time finding information about them. I do believe a band bio is such an important thing. Especially when seeking album reviews. It gives me things to write about them. So, I am placing my production rating way down there as a result. Easy fix for next time though.

Songwriting: 9
Musicianship: 10
Memorability: 9
Production: 5