Review by Shadowdoom9 (Andi) for Vision of Disorder - Imprint (1998)
I like the idea of music giving negative personal experiences more positive light. That seems to be the second Vision of Disorder album Imprint's main theme. Apparently, vocalist Tim Williams was caught up in some fights, one of which resulted in a razorblade slash in the face. The cover art is a manuplated photo of his scar. This scarring incident, while not the album's main focus, took it to a different lyrical direction. One that would, combined with the music, would make the band's greatest breakthrough!
Imprint truly proves Vision of Disorder as one of the best and heaviest bands of New York hardcore/early metalcore/groove metal. Although their 1996 self-titled debut is a perfect gem too, their second album is given smoother production by Dave Sardy, who's known for his production work with bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Helmet as well as his own film score compositions. The writing is also quite sharp as they unleash their East Coast heaviness, far away from the rising West Coast nu metal at the time. Although all the members are worth appreciating, the one that really stands out for me is Brendon Cohen and his incredible drumming skills.
In "What You Are", the band wastes no time as they attack with the guitar complexity, rhythmic drumming, and furious vocals. It already shows Vision of Disorder as more than just your friendly neighborhood hardcore band. This is basically Converge gone Sepultura, with the occasional death metal sprinkle of Obituary and Death. Williams can alternate between screaming and singing quite impressively. "Twelve Steps to Nothing" is another memorable highlight with both melody and aggression. "Landslide" also displays their songwriting ability. The drum/guitar frenzy is followed up by a strange yet intriguing melodic chorus as the guitar is given greater effect. Next track "By the River" is an interesting standout. Williams has a vocal duel/duet with Pantera's Phil Anselmo who is a Vision of Disorder fan.
The title track crushes as it details how Williams dealt with his scarring injury. The 6-minute epic "Colorblind" has their standard sound filled with different colors. "Rebirth of Tragedy" is another enjoyable highlight. "Locust of the Dead Earth" has some of the hardcore of Converge at the time with some melody later used by The Autumn Offering.
Pulling up some punches is "Up in You". Then "Clone" shows that they're more than just a hardcore/metalcore clone, with the melody of 36 Crazyfists and the chaos of Burnt by the Sun, years before those bands' rise to prominence. And finally we have the melodic "Jada Bloom", which really touches my heart as pretty much one of the first ever uplifting metalcore ballads. The beat is still quite hammering, along with the addictive heavy starting riff. So f***ing beautiful, especially the song's second half!
Vision of Disorder's first two albums show the band at their best, with a slight edge given to Imprint. Whether they can be remembered or forgotten, this fantastic offering is an essential one for 90s hardcore/metalcore. Imprinted for anyone to see and hear!
Favorites: "What You Are", "Twelve Steps to Nothing", "By the River", "Colorblind", "Rebirth of Tragedy", "Jada Bloom"