Album Review - "Smother" : Frameworks

Frameworks is my personal favorite local band to come out of South Florida (though Poison the Well is a close second). Hailing from Gainesville, the five-piece had its humble beginnings rooted in the genres of post-hardcore and screamo. However, over time with three releases on different labels, (13th Floor and Top Shelf) the band has progressively gotten better and better with each release. They've not only come into their own but have really solidified a unique and passionate sound that is brilliant and unique. Their genre these days is more of a spin that hybridizes hardcore and screamo with melodic and emo. As such, it gives me great pleasure to review and talk about their latest LP "Smother" that was will release this Friday (7/8/16) on my personal favorite record label: Deathwish Inc.

Frameworks latest release is a frenzy of screamed lyrics over coursing, melodic-centered guitar riffs that are equal parts memorable and attention grabbing. I genuinely believe that even if someone who absolutely hated screaming vocals was to give this album a listen, they could at least walk away from it marveling over the instrumentation as enjoyable. "Smother" stands out upon the very first listen. It spouts a development and a sense of maturity to veteran listeners and a unique take on emotive hardcore to new ones. Luke Pate's vocals on this record are brilliant as he truly finds balance between being fucking aggressive (hearkening the likes of Chris Colohan and maybe a touch of Jacob Banon) and implementing ever so slight tinges of melody that truly makes for a unique and satisfying listening experience. 

Tracks such as the title track and Tangled prominently display this balance working at its finest. Other tracks such as Song of Myself and Marathon simply add colors and dynamic variation to smoothen out the listening experience. It's also worth noting that ending track The New Narcissistic American Dream is a bloody brilliant send off track, as its softer sections allow for natural crescendos that ultimately hit listeners with a sense of emotional closure. 

Frameworks is a band that makes me proud of being a denizen of South Florida. "Smother" is by far one of my favorite releases of the year thus far and is a personal contender for my top 10 to come in the future. Do yourself a favor and give this record a listen and support these talented boys if you feel so inclined. 

Album Score: 9/10

I'll have links to some tracks for you all down below. Thank you for reading and have a wonderful day.

-Nights Off