Blindside Albums (5)
'The Great Depression'
Release Date 8/2/2005
Tracks 14
Label Wasa Recordings
See Album Tracklist and Review
What The Critics Say
The Hoobastanking of Swedish Christian hardcore heroes Blindside began in earnest on 2002's Silence. Aided by helming wiz Howard Benson, the quartet successfully remodeled itself, compressing its aggressive, at times bellicose vocals and blur of blistering guitars into still meaty, but safely melodic chunks of meaning. Benson returns for About a Burning Fire, which finds Blindside completing their transformation into a completely believable, yet ultimately unremarkable alternative metal combo. Nothing among the opening round of yearning screams, plodding half-time riffs, and dynamic instrumental pauses really sticks until the single "All of Us," which is a convincing cross of creeping Radiohead atmosphere and Incubus anthem-making. "All of us are searching for an open arm/And it's a shame how I curl up in the dark" -- you get the idea. They're also likely to be the only post-grunge outfit with a guest shot from chilly Swedish folkies Garmarna, whose Emma Härdelin guides the atmospheric throb of "Shekina" with her otherworldly wail. It's an album standout, but that's sort of problematic since nothing else on Burning Fire sounds remotely like it. The record's remainder is populated by capable rockers that rely solidly on formula, alternating between brooding interludes and loud moments punctuated by bursts of guitar or kernels of insight from vocalist Christian Lindskog. Highlights include "After You're Gone," which capitalizes its titular subject, suggesting Lindskog is speaking to the Man Upstairs, while "Where the Sun Never Dies" switches things up with a dual vocal setup and relentless hammer-down chording. About a Burning Fire should certainly please Blindside's more recent fan base. It's a stronger album than Silence, and shows some creative derring-do even if it ultimately settles for the typical sounds of now. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Blindside earned itself a cult following in the hardcore scene with two highly acclaimed Solid State releases that showcased the band's vociferous honesty musically as well as lyrically. Touring the independent scene, these Swedish natives formed close bonds with then underground mainstay P.O.D., a friendship that culminated with Blindside becoming the first signing to Elektra imprint label 3 Points. Silence marks Blindside's major-label debut, and finds the group reverting back to the initial aggressive alternative rock from its eponymous debut, yet the maturity and slick production are quite evident. Working with Howard Benson, the members of Blindside have seemingly pushed themselves to the limit to propel every song on this 13-track outing with sincere emotion, and in the process these men have effectively learned how to write hit songs. The material offered on Silence is edgy yet veers into mainstream hard rock territory, allowing much of the group's hardcore sound to evaporate in place of heavenly melodies. Older fans may find the tighter, more focused Blindside a sour taste, yet Silence is a courageous release that displays the group's immense growth from its abrasive hardcore past. ~ Jason D. Taylor, All Music Guide
'A Thought Crushed My Mind'
Release Date 7/5/1999
Tracks 11
Label Cargo
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What The Critics Say
A Thought Crushed My Mind, Blindside's second album, builds on the promise of their debut, crafting a number of memorable hardcore/alt-metal songs, while keeping all of their spiritual commitment and passion intact. ~ Steve Huey, All Music Guide
