Destroy The Runner

Saints

[2.5/5] Metalcore usually has a penchant for raw, primal vocals, ’80s-esque guitar solos and rapid-fire drum beats; and that seems to be the formula Destroy The Runner abide by on their debut album, Saints. The San Diego quartet use a hardcore soundscape that appeals to a screamo audience with the “bawl a verse, sing a chorus” technique but deviate from standard sinister themes, replacing gory imagery with love and heartache. “From The Red” features a tantrum-like nature subdued by a dual melodic chorus and lyrics: “There was your heart/And there was mine/Is hopeless love all we have?” Yet, meaty lashings of heavy, swift guitars similar to the likes of Killswitch Engage come via “My Darkness” and “There Can Be No Hesitation.” While the album’s “been there, done that” tone doesn’t vary from a pattern of aggressive vocals, kick drum-induced breakdowns and melodious choruses for scream- or sing-along-ability, it’s at least invariably consistent. (SOLID STATE) Jennifer Sica