Nothing in Vain

Most Precious Blood was born as the ashes of Indecision were being laid to rest, and it is readily apparent that Nothing in Vain carries with it many memories of Indecision's strengths and weaknesses. Accompanying these memories are Justin Brannan and Rachel, who were formerly guitarist and bassist for Indecision, as well as Indecision's original vocalist, Tom Sheehan. Most Precious Blood has stripped the familiar metalcore sound down to its very bones and present a formidable assemblage of uncompromising hardcore that should definitely cause a commotion in the dwindling hardcore community. Nothing in Vain displays a form of hardcore that has almost become extinct: basic, straightforward heaviness that relies more on true emotion and passion than on overbearing feats of musical prestidigitation. Sheehan sings with bold defiance toward those who may think hardcore is a lost cause, and every bandmember pours every inch of their soul into their respective instrument. Lyrically Most Precious Blood dares to be honest, writing heartfelt thoughts which deserve to be studied instead of playing the mindless rhyme game. While "And the Band Played On" speaks briefly about Most Precious Blood's dedication to their craft, songs such as "Sincerely," which touches on the pain of love, and "The Lantern," which is an emotional ode to a family member's death, are moving and realistic, overflowing with passion. Most Precious Blood embodies everything that allows hardcore music to bond with its fans, and Nothing in Vain should be used to instruct newcomers on how to convey emotion through brutality correctly. Nothing in Vain is an album of magnificence designed by people who have their fingers on the pulse of the scene.