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The Almost
Monster Monster (Tooth & Nail/Virgin)
Released November 2009
Reviewed by Robert Ham

Comments (4)

Style: Classic power-pop/stadium rock; compare to Cobra Starship, Skillet

Top tracks: "Summer Summer," "Lonely Wheel," "Books And Books"

Since 2005, The Almost has been the outlet for Underoath drummer Aaron Gillespie to indulge in his less aggressive side. And on this, the band's second full-length, he gets downright soft at times, lapsing into slow country shuffles complete with yawning pedal steel ("Hand Grenade") and blowsy blues-tinged rock ("Monster"). With the lighter musical touch, Gillespie puts aside explorations of faith, instead waxing nostalgic for friends, girls and the innocence of younger days. The rest of the album, though, sticks to a steady pace of fiery power pop with the occasional slip into the angry young man mode of Gillespie's other band.

Comments (4)

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Displaying 1–3 of 4 comments

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Jonas Guerrero

November 21, 2009 8:58pm

This by far is the worst review i have ever seen on this site, either the reviewer didnt listen to the cd or this guy is oblivious to all things that are the christian faith. SMH we need a post review or something this is unacceptable.

z-mac

November 14, 2009 2:32am

Wow does this review suck. The Almost sound nothing like the artists they are compared to. Nor does Aaron ignore his faith to write about friends and girls. The album may not be perfect, but it at least deserves a fair review.

Wade

November 13, 2009 12:18pm

Yeah, this is a terrible review. First, The Almost do not sound like Cobra Starship or Skillet! They sound more like the lead singer of Taking Back Sunday fronting the Foo Fighters. Secondly, Jeremy is correct that the CD is about sin and forgiveness (see Monster Monster and Monster!). Very disappointing review.

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