[4/5]
Since the first sounds rippled from Holy Roman Empire, it was plain their potential far outreached most of their post-hardcore peers. And with The Longue Durée, the growing chorus of supporters singing their virtues (Rise Against's Tim McIlrath-who cameos here-among them) ought to become downright deafening. From the steady rock sensibilities of "Hail Mary" to the soaring soprano of vocalist Emily Schambra that buoys "An Alliance Of Thieves," the album never stalls. The individual players' experience is explicitly present in the album's unflinching consistency as their thoughtful anthems careen around with calculated abandon, avoiding anything approaching sameness all the way. Using their pedigrees as a launching pad and this unbending debut as a foundation, it seems Holy Roman Empire have built the kind of rock that could support a career. If not, well, y'know... (HEWHOCORRUPTS INC) Tristan Staddon
 Official Website: http://www.hewhocorruptsinc.com
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