Glass & Ashes - Aesthetic Arrest

Glass & Ashes is intense and melodic; harsh and beautiful, making Aesthetic Arrest an appropriate title.

Glass & Ashes “debut” Aesthetic Arrest was released last October and even though it’s been quite a few months, the disc deserves a couple words because if you haven’t heard it yet—you need to. It is a damn solid release. I call it their “debut” because Glass & Ashes were formerly known as Kenji and it just seems unfair to pretend this heavily experienced band is something brand new. I think after hearing the release, the skill and concentrated harmony of the guys speaks for itself.

The music is intense and melodic; harsh and beautiful, making Aesthetic Arrest an appropriate title. “Black Beneath the Eyes,” “Eighty-Six,” and “Off the Piranha” are a few notable tracks to mention if you are the iTunes type and want to hear a little before you fork over the whole 15 dollars. The band combines straight musical talent with an emotional and powerful vocalist. I am a fan of the vocal stylings of MewithoutYou and I don’t hesitate to make comparisons here. Albeit, Glass & Ashes is a bit more screamo than MewithoutYou, but I swear that these guys have identical vocal chords and I think we all agree that’s a good thing.

The band tours a lot and if they are as intense live as they are in a boring studio, then you better bring some earplugs if you plan on hearing anything for a while afterwards—and don’t say I didn’t warn you. This band’s live show comes with high recommendations in the hardcore crowd for its severity and raw vigor. If they show up around here—I will be there. Aesthetic Arrest isn’t one of those albums that will leave you embarrassed when, in a couple of years, someone is listening to your collection and making fun of your Simple Plan and Eighteen Visions CDs—nope, Glass & Ashes will make the cut.

(No Idea Records)