Phoenix Mourning - When Excuses Become Antiques / 2006 Metal Blade / 13 Tracks / http://www.phoenixmourning.com / >http://www.metalblade.com / Reviewed 10 July 2006

Phoenix Mourning is an interesting signature for Metal Blade. The overall sound that the band puts forward during tracks like �Contrast� is a equal part blend of emo and Disturbed-like metal. The blend is not something that occurs frequently, and I�m not sure if I�ve heard a band at this level attempt something so daring. But, does this gambit work out, and is Phoenix Mourning an act that individuals should check out? The short answer is �yes�; the novelty of this style is one superficial reason why individuals should buy a copy of �When Excuses Become Antiques�, but there are a litany of other reasons why this is a must buy.

For example, the multiple set of vocals (which seem to number up to three at any one given time) do not just compliment each other; during tracks like the aforementioned �Contrast�, two vocals are fighting each other while a third is going up the scales. This is not done to create clutter, but to add enough bulk to the vocal side of things to go up against the catchy guitar lines and splashy drums that are present throughout the entirety of the disc. �Niche� is a track that shows Phoenix Mourning as an act that goes beyond simple instrumental arrangements; by moving away from the traditional time signatures that are used in rock and metal, inserting a second�s worth of breathing space, the band is able to add a completely new sound to their arsenal.

�One January Morning� is yet another hit for Phoenix Mourning, the blend of the two styles not showing even the slightest bit of cracking. The band even throws in guitar work that is directly influenced by acts like Helloween; with all of the different things that happen during a Phoenix Mourning track, the band can only be given the nomen �aural circus�. This is honestly the equivalent of walking in the focal point of those large concerts where there are a number of stages, but if the bands were three Flaming Lips playing the proper parts of �Zaireeka�. Phoenix Mourning needs to continue on the path that they created during �When Excuses Become Antiques�. The style is theirs and theirs alone currently to do what they wish; this first album has laid the blueprint for what could be the next big movement in emo and metal. The band has the skill, so I know I�ll look forward to the next album.

Top Tracks: Contrast, Niche

Rating: 7.1/10

[JMcQ]