Review - Every Time I Die

Band: Every Time I Die
Album: The Big Dirty
Label: Ferret Records
4 out of 5


When I pick up a brand new Every Time I Die album I expect to hear three distinct characteristics. These include the witty and sarcastic lyrics singer Keith Buckley brings to the table, catchy and devastating guitar riffs, and the infamous cowbell that seems to show up on at least one track. The Big Dirty, the bands 4th full-length release, doesn’t disappoint in any of these categories.

ETID’s last release, Gutter Phenomenon, was a surprising departure from the band’s previous work. The album shifted to a more metal influence that officially put the band into the metalcore genre. The Big Dirty finds the band returning to the more rock driven and hardcore feel that many ETID fans are accustomed with. This is apparent from the very beginning of the record with the kick off song “No Son of Mine.” The guitar riffs are downright nasty and the vocals demand your attention.

ETID’s main draw is front man Keith Buckley. Each album that ETID puts out has the listener guessing what Buckley will say next. Buckley’s witty style of writing has given him the reputation of one of the best lyricist of our generation, especially within the hardcore genre.

ETID has definitely topped the effort that they put out on their last release. It will be interesting to see how fans react to this album. I can see the fan base being split in half. One half will cry “genius” in a dramatic fashion while the other half will admit it’s a great record but claim it isn’t a Hot Damn! or Last Night in Town. Either way this is a satisfying release and should be a nice addition for those who are consistently wishing they had more ETID.

Recommended Tracks: No Son of Mine, We’rewolf (this track has the infamous cowbell), INRIhab