The Silence in Black and White (by Hawthorne Heights, Rock)

Combining elements of punk, hardcore, emo, metal, and rock influences, Hawthorne Heights –- a band that formed two years ago in Dayton, Ohio with the name A Day in the Life -– are trying a little too hard, and it really shows in this album. The angst is overplayed and self-conscious, and the songs -- including lyrics referencing blades, throat cutting, bleeding, fire, and suicide –- are repetitive and derivative. But there's a lot of heart and spirit on Hawthorne Heights' THE SILENCE IN BLACK AND WHITE, an album that was obviously produced with loving care.

Alternating between whispers and screams, the vocals of The Silence in Black and White sound as clichéd as the mostly tiresome lyrics. Instrumentals are well-performed and well-intended, but fall short of brilliance. Maturity and confidence (and some better songs) will go a long way toward helping these guys fulfill their obvious potential. As it is, the most positive message offered on this album is that creativity (even if it means writing mediocre songs) is way better than hurting yourself. Really.

Released on: June 8, 2005
Label: Victory
Genre: Rock