”Gutter Phenomenon” was a term coined in the 1950’s to describe rock and roll and its “sinfulness”. 50 years later, Every Time I Die is a band from that gutter that stands out among the rest. With two chaotic-filled albums under their belt already, ETID has become the hottest thing out of Buffalo since those world-famous wings. With Gutter Phenomenon, ETID brings a different sound. This time around ETID brings less chaos, more structure, and refined singing from vocalist Keith Buckley. Still evident are the biting, intelligent lyrics and overall passion and intensity from the band. This isn’t the ETID you’re used to; rather this is an ETID that proves that overall they are great musicians. Produced by Machine (Lamb Of God, Armor For Sleep, Boys Night Out), “Gutter Phenomenon” is an 11-track rock and roll beat down. Along with Buckley, ETID is rounded out by guitarists Jordan Buckley and Andrew Williams, with Mike “Ratboy” Novak on drums. The bass was done by Kevin Faulk for the record, but he was dropped by the band afterward. While this may be a more mature ETID, they still have the same bite as before.
”Apocalyspe Now And Then” kicks off the album, with Buckley screaming “You got me right where you wanted me!” It’s a track filled with memorable riffs, and most notably Buckley’s new vocal range. “Kill The Music” is the first single off the album, which has guest vocals from My Chemical Romance’s Gerard Way. While I’m not the biggest fan of MCR, the more I listen to it, the more it fits. Following that track is “Bored Stiff,” which features a line (Hey there, girls. I’m a cunt!) that’ll be a fan favorite. “Tusk and Temper” is a track that gets pounded into your skill. Fast from the start, it’s a track that reminds you of “Hot Damn!.” Also be on the lookout for that ETID cowbell, as it’s featured in this track as well as “The New Black.” “Champing At The Bit” features 4-part harmonies, as well as Glassjaw/Head Automatica frontman Daryl Palumbo helping with vocals. This is one of the better ETID tracks I have heard. “L’astronaut” is my favorite track on the album, lyrically and musically. It features great one-liners, including this gem: “Take your gun out of my mouth/you are ruining my appetite.” This track is powered by the vocals of Buckley as well. The final track, “Pretty Dirty”, leaves you wanting more ETID. Another song in the spirit of “Hot Damn!,” it features more singing than screaming from Keith, memorizing guitar riffs, and handclaps. A great closer to a stellar album
Overall, this is a love-hate album for ETID fans. Some older fans have probably disowned this record, but for as many fans they lose from this record, they gain 10 more. Does it lack in some areas compared to older ETID recordings? Sure. Is it one of the best metalcore albums out there today? Hell yes, it is. Do yourself a favor and pick this up today.