AKissForJersey: Victims

The Indie Review

By Sean Duregger
June 8, 2008

Artist: AKissForJersey
Album: Victims
Label: Tragic Hero Records
Rating:

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Tragic Hero Records recording artist, AKissForJersey have had a busy couple of years. First with the release of their debut album, Keep Your Head Above Water in August of 2006, then with the re-release of their debut with added acoustic tracks in late 2007. The re-release is an impressive feat for such a young band. While I wasn’t impressed with Keep Your Head Above Water as a whole, I did notice some promise in AKissForJersey’s potential. In 2008 we are rewarded with AKissForJersey’s sophomore release, Victims. An album that builds upon the memorable moments of their debut, but then goes above and beyond to become one of the best post-hardcore releases of 2008 so far.

Victims is an impressive release, not only because of how it builds and improves on Keep Your Head Above Water, but because it showcases one of the best rock voices I’ve heard in recent years. Zach’s vocals are so impressive, I’m willing to put him on my list next to Craig Owens and Anthony Green. Not many vocalists in today’s scene can showcase the range and distinct tone that Zach’s vocals bring to the table here. Also, Zach’s lyrics should be noted as well. They are bold, yet poetic and never come across as shallow or preachy. He really has a way with words and lays his faith in God out in the open in a completely intimate and honest fashion.

Musically, Victims is a more complete sounding album. Listening to the album straight through, you feel like you have been taken through a story, or an experience. Everything flows together very nicely. It doesn’t feel like a collection of songs were just through together. Halfway through the album is a nice interlude where a preacher is reading a passage from Matthew 7:14 - 7:27 set to some haunting, yet powerful music. This interlude is both powerful and thought provoking.

A gigantic step of from their debut, AKissForJersey have released one of the great rock albums of 2008. This is a band that is gaining momentum and is a band to watch. With the release of Victims, AKissForJersey have placed themselves firmly on the map. Things can only get better from here.

Stand Out Tracks:

“Devices”

“The Flood”

“A Tree and it’s Fruit”