Artist: Between the Buried and Me Album: The Silent Circus

Year: 2003
Duration: 52:51

A of Between the Buried and Me's The Silent Circus

Between the Buried and Me is a progressive metal band that has been wowing audiences since their inception in 2000. Their style is a unique blend of metal, rock, and hardcore. The Silent Circus is their second full-length album, released in 2003. It is considered a classic in the progressive metal scene, but does it live up to the hype? In this review, we will take a closer look at the album and determine what makes it a standout in the genre.
Before diving into the specifics of The Silent Circus, it's important to understand the history of Between the Buried and Me. The band formed in Raleigh, North Carolina, with members Tommy Giles Rogers Jr. (vocals/keyboards), Paul Waggoner (guitar), Dustie Waring (guitar), Blake Richardson (drums), and Dan Briggs (bass). They quickly gained a following in the local underground metal scene and were eventually signed to Victory Records.
The Silent Circus is considered a landmark album for Between the Buried and Me. It marks a distinct shift in their sound, incorporating more progressive elements and showcasing their songwriting skills. The album is a concept piece, with a loose narrative running throughout the songs. It explores themes of self-doubt and identity, making it a relatable and introspective release.
One of the standout tracks on the album is Mordecai. This song has become a fan favorite and is often played live at concerts. It is a perfect example of the band's blend of different genres, with heavy riffs, melodic passages, and intricate instrumentation. Other tracks that stand out include Ad A Dglgmut, Camilla Rhodes, and Aesthetic. Each song offers a unique listening experience and showcases the band's technical proficiency.
The Silent Circus is also marked by its innovative parts. The use of keyboards and effects brings an added layer of depth to the music. The band's ability to switch between time signatures and styles seamlessly is also impressive. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is expected in metal and it shows in this album.
However, The Silent Circus is not without its flaws. Some of the tracks feel disjointed and lacking in cohesion. The narrative running throughout the album is not always clear, making it difficult to follow the story. The use of harsh vocals may be off-putting to some listeners as well. These criticisms do not detract from the overall quality of the album, but they should be noted.
In conclusion, The Silent Circus is a standout album in the progressive metal genre. It showcases Between the Buried and Me's songwriting abilities and technical proficiency. The blend of different genres and innovative parts make for a captivating listening experience. While it may not be flawless, it is a must-listen for fans of the band and the genre. Overall, The Silent Circus is a classic album that has stood the test of time.
In conclusion, The Silent Circus is a standout album in the progressive metal genre. It showcases Between the Buried and Me's songwriting abilities and technical proficiency. The blend of different genres and innovative parts make for a captivating listening experience. While it may not be flawless, it is a must-listen for fans of the band and the genre. Overall, The Silent Circus is a classic album that has stood the test of time.