Betrayal - In Remembrance of Me (2002)
At first listen this disc didn't appear to be all that much different from Betrayal's last effort "Leaving Nevermore". Upon subsequent listens however one will notice many great and encouraging
differences! This is quite appropriately termed "Gothic Metal" by band leader/guitarist/vocalist Marcus Colon. The music interweaves industrial drum loops and heavy guitar playing that can be compared to the newer
music of Deliverance (ie: the "Assimilation" cd). The overall style is similar to "Leaving Nevermore" and once again features Marcus' emotional and haunting vocal delivery.Which I might add is very unique and
not in the least bit contrived. The guitars are more present and heavier at times than it's predecessor and that is definitely a plus for fans of the older Betrayal guitar sound. There are thick thrash influenced rhythms played in
a competent modern form.
There are intriguing moments of soft acoustic playing then bursts of the thick rhythms and eerie keyboards that compliment the songs perfectly. The intro to the song "Stay the Course" is also
quite remarkable as it starts off with a keyboard/piano piece and then goes into a layered metal guitar attack. Every song on here is good and full of changes and diversity. I can listen to this cd multiple times without becoming
burnt out on the tracks. On ocassion you will hear a softly whispered passage, that although partially obstructed by a wall of musical intensity, manages to jump out and grab the listener as if to say "do you see what I am
saying?" The production on here is absolutely great but not perfect. Let me try to explain. The sonics are incredible! Crisp and clear, not muddy at all. You can hear every note and every word sung. The one thing lacking is
that big wall of sound that could be achieved from a high dollar studio and high dollar engineers (the stuff the big label bands achieve). When will the record companies sit up and take notice of the incredible talent within the
Christian metal community?! The biggest difference between this and "Leaving Nevermore" would have to be the decidedly evangelical approach the lyrics take. Betrayal has always been great with lyrics and have written many
a mature statement. This new recording is no exception and the lyrics force the listener to take a look at themselves and where they stand with God. Songs like "In Remembrance of Me" are direct and to the point about
dying to self (old sin nature) and becoming new in Christ and songs like "Dark Laden" deal with topics such as demonic opression. This is something we need much more of within our scene. I encourage Betrayal and thank
them for standing so boldly for Christ! Being owner and chief editor of Thunderline it is my position that bands who take the time to take a stand should be noted and we should help the ministries of these bands. Recommended for
fans of Wyrick, Saviour Machine, Kohllapse, NIN, etc... -- Review by Norm - (*Note* - This cd is being distributed on a donation basis. For more information visit the Betrayal website at: http://www.betrayalmusic.com