Artist: 10 Years Album: Minus the Machine

Year: 2012
Duration: 55:36

A of the Album: Minus the Machine by 10 Years

10 Years is a well-known alternative metal band that formed in Knoxville, Tennessee in 1999. They've produced a range of albums, with their third, Minus the Machine, being one of their most popular. Released in 2012, the album saw a slight shift in direction from their earlier work. It was more melodic, with a focus on catchy melodies and deep, introspective lyrics. In this post, we're going to take a closer look at Minus the Machine, including a brief history of the band, the music genre of the album, the best songs, the most innovative parts, and my personal critic.
The album opens with the song Minus the Machine, which sets the tone for the rest of the record. The track showcases the band's hard-hitting sound, with powerful guitar riffs and an intense drumbeat. However, it also introduces the more introspective lyrics that are a common theme throughout the album. Forever Fields (Sowing Season) is another standout song, with a melancholic yet hopeful tone. It features a haunting piano melody and emotive vocals from lead singer Jesse Hasek.
One of the most innovative parts of Minus the Machine is the inclusion of a string quartet on several tracks. This adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the songs, complementing the band's heavy sound. A great example of this can be found in Dancing with the Dead, which features poignant string arrangements that blend seamlessly with the guitars and drums.
However, the strongest aspect of the album is undoubtedly the lyrics. Hasek's introspective and personal words have always been a defining trait of 10 Years' music, but they are particularly poignant on Minus the Machine. Songs like Backlash and Writing on the Walls delve deep into issues of self-doubt, anxiety, and depression. Hasek's raw, honest lyrics are a major part of what makes the album so compelling.
However, Minus the Machine isn't perfect. Some of the songs can feel a bit repetitive, particularly towards the end of the album. This is especially true of Knives and Moisture Residue. While these tracks aren't bad per se, they don't quite live up to the quality of the rest of the record.
All in all, Minus the Machine is a great album for both long-time fans of 10 Years and newcomers to their music. The band's melodic sound is a departure from their earlier, heavier work, but it's a welcome change that allows their introspective lyrics to shine. While there are a few weak points here and there, the strong songwriting and emotional depth of the album more than make up for it. If you're a fan of alternative metal or just great music in general, Minus the Machine is definitely worth a listen.