For All Those Sleeping

Incomplete Me

In a parallel universe, For All Those Sleeping’s third full-length release, Incomplete Me, could have been labeled screamo. Really, really good screamo. Underoath-level screamo. Today’s market, though, would have it metalcore, probably out of necessity for a term. But as a result, with every passing derivative act of the genres, it would do this band injustice not make this point: When did “screamo” or “metalcore” become bad words? There’s no reason to avoid bands of either genre if the music is good; that would make you a music snob. You’re not that. And there’s no reason to avoid For All Those Sleeping.

For All Those Sleeping’s blend can be biting and vicious (grabs you by the throat at the start of the album with “Crosses”), but it can also be perfectly harmonious (one of the most singable songs of the year with “Hell or Heaven”). They channel their inner Linkin Park through “Poison Party” before seamlessly exploding into beatdowns. For All Those Sleeping’s attention to detail in writing songs like these — what makes them who they are — is one of the band’s strengths: Embrace catchy, take the dagger to throats on a dime and don’t be afraid of a doing what’s right for the song.

In a staid genre of derivative acts and pageantry, For All Those Sleeping demands attention with a perfect storm of catchy hooks and harmonies, heavy-as-nails breakdowns and inventive songwriting. This band understands the importance of writing a good song first, then letting the rest fall into place. Their experience works in their favor here, and it shows. If the band keeps stepping up their own bar, the future looks bright.