I, the Breather have gotten a lot of notoriety, press, and spotlight since their last release two years ago, “These Are My Sins”. Their latest album, “Truth and Purpose”, is their sophomore release through Sumerian Records. One always hears about how bands have released a powerful first album yet their second album is nowhere near the calibur as the first. I, the Breather definitely did not take have a “sophomore slump” album. In fact, “Truth and Purpose” is significantly better than their debut album “These Are My Sins”.
I, the Breather hails from Baltimore, Maryland where the metal scene is thriving. They are a deathcore/metalcore style of band. I, the Breather openly labels themselves as Christian Metal. Their lyrics, musical theme, and overall message clearly depict their devotion to their religion. “Truth and Purpose” could single-handedly put Christian Metal on the map. The first track “False Profit” had a sort of electronic opening which led into Shawn’s powerful opening lyrics, “I’m a King, you’re not a Prophet.” I, the Breather took over with an immensely powerful breakdown that could rattle the soul of any saint. The lyrics are a very important constituent that makes I, the Breather who they are. In the song “Bruised and Broken”, there are powerful lyrics like, “I built these walls to home the family of the broke and burned. We fell with the things we couldn’t see. He picked us back up with his hand’s that bleed.” The band is not afraid or timid to express how they feel. What made this album so superior over “These Are My Sins” was the fact that every song on “Truth and Purpose” was invigorating and never lost my attention. The overall production quality was top notch. The guitar riffs, chugging, and melodies deserve high praise. The bass made it’s presence known, but could have stood out some more. Drums ranged from blast beats to breakdown patterns accompanying the guitars. I, the Breather doesn’t use much of the clean vocal style, yet when they do in “Truth and Purpose” it adds the perfect amount of spice to their home-made concoction of metal. I absolutely love instrumental tracks, with “Lunar” not being an exception. It shows how I, the Breather can be a powerhouse of technicality and creativity. Songs that I had thoroughly enjoyed were “Bruised and Broken”, “Lunar”, “Mentalist”, and “4.12.11″. I am very curious to know why that date is significant to the band.
If you are a fan of bands Texas In July, Veil of Maya, and/or Volumes then I, the Breather is something up your alley. “Truth and Purpose” overall was an album that could not be easily forgotten. With so many memorable moments in the album, it definitely should be added to anyone’s workout playlist or car stereo. I, the Reviewer give “Truth and Purpose” a score of 8.5/10. “Truth and Purpose” is one of many great albums that are going to be coming out this year. At this rate, 2012 looks like a dominating year for metal. Hallelujah!
