Whispered Hallows - With Honesty Comes Clarity

[Klatzke]

Whispered Hallows - With Honesty Comes Clarity
Record Label: None
Release Date: September 2008

Who?

A six piece post-hardcore band from Raleigh, North Carolina -- Oh, wait, wrong one. Here we go: Whispered Hallows is a currently unsigned five-piece post-hardcore band from Wisconsin that's playing their debut EP, With Honesty Comes Clarity.

How is it?

Truthfully, almost an exact replica of Alesana. The similarities are almost eerie in a lot of places, especially in the vocal region. Not only does their singer sound like a dead ringer for Alesana's, they use the multiple layered screaming that Alesana has come to be known (and hated) for. I do have to give them a little credit - most of the screaming is actually tolerable, unlike their idols from North Carolina. Every now and then they happen on a good vocal device, like the layered screaming/growling that almost sounds similar to The Number Twelve Looks Like You, but 90% of the time it just sounds contrived and somewhat boring.

In many places, it's not even this undeniable similarity that makes me frown upon With Honesty Comes Clarity. Instead, it's their insistence on jumping on nearly every cliche they come within reach of. Some examples of this include super "slo-mo" breakdowns, subtle synth inclusions, and an extremely boring guitar approach. While it seems like their guitarists can actually throw out something impressive in places, such as the blues-y solo in "Sorry Baby, I'm Into Necrophilia", in many places the just play the standard chug-chug breakdowns and simple chord progression leads. There are a few places other than this where they mix it up and actually throw in something interesting, but the overall feel of the album is rather mediocre even when they manage to rise up past those things holding them further down.

By including things like these ultra-standard rip-off breakdowns and laughably terrible song titles like the aforementioned and "Life Without Bears Would be Unbearable", Whispered Hallows just fail to make any kind of favorable or lasting impression. In fact, the only thing this EP really makes me want to do is see whether or not I can still tolerate Alesana.

Alesana and... Alesana
myspace.com/whisperedhallows (http://www.myspace.com/whisperedhallows)

[more heart]

I've never ead a review before and believed that a band really does suck without even listening to them until now. This seems like a complete trainwreck.

Edit: Checked it out and you were right. The clean vocals are pretty decent but the screams...not so much.

[flks511]

Good review (although the hating on Alesana was kind of overdone; but the actual review of the album was good).

[Klatzke]

Good review (although the hating on Alesana was kind of overdone; but the actual review of the album was good).
...except Alesana sucks.

But i wasn't really hating on them, just observing this band sounds like them.

[Klatzke]

wtf happened to my comment? I didn't delete it.

I think if you dig through the guitar work you may find a few spots in every song where they seem to break from the shitty hardcore to almost experimental stuff. the use of delay in "I stole my belt from Orion" in the beginning is a nice touch. I'd say that "sorry baby.." and that orion song are the best 2. They break from song structure and have the most promising parts in it.

Just my 2 cents... again. hah.
I'll quote you so it doesn't disappear again. haha.

And I mentioned that there are a few good guitar parts, and I actually discussed that with the band. Like the solo in the one song.

[flks511]

...except Alesana sucks.

But i wasn't really hating on them, just observing this band sounds like them.
No, I wasn't saying the review was bad, it's just that there's 2 whole paragraphs devoted to Alesana, which is kind of overdoing it.

[Klatzke]

No, I wasn't saying the review was bad, it's just that there's 2 whole paragraphs devoted to Alesana, which is kind of overdoing it.
No.. There's not. It's all about the band just with comments regarding them. I really doubt your comprehension skills.

[flks511]

No.. There's not. It's all about the band just with comments regarding them. I really doubt your comprehension skills.
The point I was trying to make was that you overdid it with all the Alesana comparisons. We get it, they sound similar.

[Klatzke]

The point I was trying to make was that you overdid it with all the Alesana comparisons. We get it, they sound similar.
Similar doesn't cut it. It's almost a rip in a lot of places. Pretty much not something you can ignore.

[flks511]

Similar doesn't cut it. It's almost a rip in a lot of places. Pretty much not something you can ignore.
Whatever term you use (similar/rip/replica) you talked way too much about their connection to Alesana.

[more heart]

Whatever term you use (similar/rip/replica) you talked way too much about their connection to Alesana.
There is a pont to the constant Alesana talk. These guys are a blatant rip off of Alesana which is easily their biggest downfall. It would be the same as a band that writes shitty lyrics and not clearly pointing out that the lyrics are a problem.

[flks511]

There is a pont to the constant Alesana talk. These guys are a blatant rip off of Alesana which is easily their biggest downfall. It would be the same as a band that writes shitty lyrics and not clearly pointing out that the lyrics are a problem.
"This band sounds a lot like Alesana." There, point made. Not.. "This band is an exact replica of Alesana. Their singer sounds too much like Milke. They use screamers, like Alesana. But the screaming is decent, not like Alesana. I wonder if I can stand Alesana now. etc, etc.

[more heart]

"This band sounds a lot like Alesana." There, point made. Not.. "This band is an exact replica of Alesana. Their singer sounds too much like Milke. They use screamers, like Alesana. But the screaming is decent, not like Alesana. I wonder if I can stand Alesana now. etc, etc.
Again, read the last sentence of my previous post.

[Klatzke]

"This band sounds a lot like Alesana." There, point made. Not.. "This band is an exact replica of Alesana. Their singer sounds too much like Milke. They use screamers, like Alesana. But the screaming is decent, not like Alesana. I wonder if I can stand Alesana now. etc, etc.
You're an idiot. Stick to writing flattering reviews for second rate bands, and I'll keep comparing other bad releases to them.

[more heart]

You're an idiot. Stick to writing flattering reviews for second rate bands, and I'll keep comparing other bad releases to them.
Haha there's no point in explaining it to this kid.

[Klatzke]

Haha there's no point in explaining it to this kid.
It's ridiculous. Apparently they don't teach reading comprehension where he's from. Very possibly Ohio

[more heart]

It's ridiculous. Apparently they don't teach reading comprehension where he's from. Very possibly Ohio
So the education system in Ohio is sorely lacking? Anyway, he obviously doesn't understand you're pointing out that this band is more than just an Alesana sound-a-like and not that Alesana is bad(though we both know they are).

[Klatzke]

Man, All this talk about Alesana as their downfall. And Klatzke, you said its a rip of in some places too.
Okay first I wanna say, yes, there are places where you could EASILY say they sound like them. However since all these comments have come about I went and really started listening to them and trying to find places where they rip and places they dont.

Sorry baby I'm into necrophilia,

There is no layered screaming at all in this song. Their low screamer is not there at all, and actually I think thats both a good and a bad thing.

good because, I agree that most of the layered stuff sounds like a dead rip off of alesana

bad because, in all honesty I think their low screamer is WAY better, sounds ballsy and just intense and their high screamer at times sounds like his voice is cracking. The fact that they released a sound in some places like that would be embarrassing for me if I was him.

However, That song happens upon alot of vocal and guitar driven things that make the song easily their best. The chorus for one after a few listens is just... epic. I love the sustained harmony while the screamer mixes it up with a variation of pitch and intensity.

If anything, I'd say, give them a chance. Listen a few times and really dig through it. You may find alot more then you would expect from the first listen. And for all you alesana haters.. this might be alesana done right.

The singing is just flat out better, yes its still not by any means great or even consistently good. but it sure as hell is way better then shawns whinny piece of shit crys in tune.
Uhh I'm aware I said they sound like them. And I listened more than "a few times."

[Klatzke]

no, i know. I'm sorry I worded that bad. Just was trying to comment on places they ripped and places they don't.

I mean if anything I would have liked to hear just a bit more on the things they DID do right. What made them right? Why do you think they didn't do this more? Does it appear that they may lean towards more of this in the future?

One more note. The song "you're an eight" is pure garbage. Tough guy the whole way through and the super slo mo breakdown made me wanna throw up. (figuratively)

Edit: and I wasn't trying to tell you to listen more. I was just saying in general for everyone.
I mentioned what they did well. I wasn't going to make this a 500 word review for a six song ep that was easy to make a decision about.

[flks511]

You're an idiot. Stick to writing flattering reviews for second rate bands, and I'll keep comparing other bad releases to them.
You've gotta chill. I wasn't trying to start an arguement, I was just telling you that the constant comparisons to another band was overdone.

[Klatzke]

You've gotta chill. I wasn't trying to start an arguement, I was just telling you that the constant comparisons to another band was overdone.
Your argument is pointless, and i'm not the only one who thinks so. I rarely get up in arms over criticism, but when it's based on something that makes no sense I'll argue it. Have you heard this whole EP? If not, there's no way for you to even know the extent of the comparison.

[Klatzke]

So the education system in Ohio is sorely lacking? Anyway, he obviously doesn't understand you're pointing out that this band is more than just an Alesana sound-a-like and not that Alesana is bad(though we both know they are).
Oh yeah it's lacking. Hah

[flks511]

Your argument is pointless, and i'm not the only one who thinks so. I rarely get up in arms over criticism, but when it's based on something that makes no sense I'll argue it. Have you heard this whole EP? If not, there's no way for you to even know the extent of the comparison.
I've checked them out. I see your point. I'm not denying that the two bands sound alike. What I was saying was the comments about the similarities were a bit excessive.

[Klatzke]

I've checked them out. I see your point. I'm not denying that the two bands sound alike. What I was saying was the comments about the similarities were a bit excessive.
... which they weren't? I didn't constantly make comparisons to the sound, I just referenced a few ways as to how they sounded like them, and used them as a bit of humor throughout.

[flks511]

... which they weren't? I didn't constantly make comparisons to the sound, I just referenced a few ways as to how they sounded like them, and used them as a bit of humor throughout.
I'm just saying...it caught my attention, and it kind of took away from the review.

[Klatzke]

I'm just saying...it caught my attention, and it kind of took away from the review.
Cool

[Handraa]

So this band sounds like Alesana...did anyone notice?

[Handraa]

i sure as hell hope that was a joke.
Hahaha, i was mocking the whole review..but the seriously did rip them off completely.

[Handraa]

i disagree.
Seriously? Have you listened to them?

[Klatzke]

I believe thats a question I should be asking you. You response without any sort of support backing your claim is funny. Anybody can stamp an opinion on anything. Without a constructive review/response/post your words mean nothing.

Similar is one thing, A complete rip off, no. Show me a part in the music where they RIP off a riff, melody, or lyric. You won't find it I guarantee you. Oh and how often did alesana do a slowed down break into a blue grass solo? When have they ever gone from a hardcore part and transitioned into what could be funk? For that matter when have they ever done gang vocals? How many other bands are layering screams now? TDWP does it, A Day To Remember... ect. Its a growing fad, more and more bands are throwing in parts like that. Are you gunna say they ripped Alesana off too? I at no point heard in these guy's music a part in a song where it was 3 people screaming overlapping and all different lines which is alesana's so called "trademark" I heard Echoed screams meaning a high line and then the same line in a low scream. But never anything more than that. These guys have a number of places where two singers are featured other than just one, Correct me if I'm wrong but I believe Alesana only has one singer if you can even call that singing.

If you can pick out things to distinguish one band from another and support it I'll respect it. Have you taken Music classes? Do you know what musical dictation is? Workings of musical Theory? The use of Counterpoint and the chromatic leading tone dominant chords used by this band make their music progressions different. I disagree with the reviewers claim to an "extremely boring guitar approach" Because IF you had listened to the music you would have discovered that 2 of their songs are done using almost nothing but jazz chords in a dominant position and cleverly inverted. But whos to say you actually understood any of that just by listening.
Their vocal arrangements and clean singing pretty much rip them off. They sound nearly identical.

Oh, and "had I actually listened to it.." gtfo, I listened to these songs at least 10+ times each before writing this. On more than one of those occasions, I believe Handra was actually with me. I get this is some local band that you dig, but really, this EP was bad. I'm not saying the guys are untalented, and they were extremely chill dudes when I talked to them after this was posted, but this EP was generic and rehashed.

Sorry.

[Handraa]

I believe thats a question I should be asking you. You response without any sort of support backing your claim is funny. Anybody can stamp an opinion on anything. Without a constructive review/response/post your words mean nothing.

Similar is one thing, A complete rip off, no. Show me a part in the music where they RIP off a riff, melody, or lyric. You won't find it I guarantee you. Oh and how often did alesana do a slowed down break into a blue grass solo? When have they ever gone from a hardcore part and transitioned into what could be funk? For that matter when have they ever done gang vocals? How many other bands are layering screams now? TDWP does it, A Day To Remember... ect. Its a growing fad, more and more bands are throwing in parts like that. Are you gunna say they ripped Alesana off too? I at no point heard in these guy's music a part in a song where it was 3 people screaming overlapping and all different lines which is alesana's so called "trademark" I heard Echoed screams meaning a high line and then the same line in a low scream. But never anything more than that. These guys have a number of places where two singers are featured other than just one, Correct me if I'm wrong but I believe Alesana only has one singer if you can even call that singing.

If you can pick out things to distinguish one band from another and support it I'll respect it. Have you taken Music classes? Do you know what musical dictation is? Workings of musical Theory? The use of Counterpoint and the chromatic leading tone dominant chords used by this band make their music progressions different. I disagree with the reviewers claim to an "extremely boring guitar approach" Because IF you had listened to the music you would have discovered that 2 of their songs are done using almost nothing but jazz chords in a dominant position and cleverly inverted. But whos to say you actually understood any of that just by listening.
There was nothing new about this EP.
Sounds like your just a local scene fan boy.

[Handraa]

at what point did I say there was something new about this ep?
never, i was pointing out that what I had analyzed from this music in a response to your claim of a "complete" rip off.

Sounds like you have to make claims to try to offend when someone actually replies with support backing their argument, unlike you. Read Before you respond.

and klatze,

" I get this is some local band that you dig"

I do, but again I didn't say that. In my post I didn't even say weather or not I liked them. Everyone can improve, and no they are not worthy of getting somewhere yet, But with work I believe they will.

"Oh, and "had I actually listened to it.." gtfo, I listened to these songs at least 10+ times each before writing this. On more than one of those occasions, I believe Handra was actually with me."

Your review comes off as if you we're in a bad mood from the first place, you made it not only clear but offensively clear that they sound alike. Who we're you actually talking about were you talking about? how bad alesana is? or how this band reminds of so much of alesana. Either way the point is this review is not SOLELY about the band, which (IN MY OPINON) makes me feel you can't dictate the music enough to actually talk about it without relating it to something.

How did you anylze it did you read the lyrics and think about it? Thats one of the places you gave it a somewhat good score? Why? that was no where in your review and I'm pretty sure the band itself would like to know exactly what was better than average about their lyrics in their sub par band.

Production, the highest rating... and all you said was something about adding synth.

And did you really have to mention the song titles over something like prodcution or lyrics? That really makes it seem as tho you we're striving to drive them even further into the ground.

when you write a review for something that alot of people may read. Be concrete, you certainly were not.

Now i'll sit and wait for the response with some sort of insult because maybe you can't take critisim about your own review. Why in the hell would you give critism if you can't take it? You've done nothing but bash or beat down someone who had ANY sort of problem with your review.
Klatzke*

[Klatzke]

at what point did I say there was something new about this ep?
never, i was pointing out that what I had analyzed from this music in a response to your claim of a "complete" rip off.

Sounds like you have to make claims to try to offend when someone actually replies with support backing their argument, unlike you. Read Before you respond.

and klatze,

" I get this is some local band that you dig"

I do, but again I didn't say that. In my post I didn't even say weather or not I liked them. Everyone can improve, and no they are not worthy of getting somewhere yet, But with work I believe they will.

"Oh, and "had I actually listened to it.." gtfo, I listened to these songs at least 10+ times each before writing this. On more than one of those occasions, I believe Handra was actually with me."

Your review comes off as if you we're in a bad mood from the first place, you made it not only clear but offensively clear that they sound alike. Who we're you actually talking about were you talking about? how bad alesana is? or how this band reminds of so much of alesana. Either way the point is this review is not SOLELY about the band, which (IN MY OPINON) makes me feel you can't dictate the music enough to actually talk about it without relating it to something.

How did you anylze it did you read the lyrics and think about it? Thats one of the places you gave it a somewhat good score? Why? that was no where in your review and I'm pretty sure the band itself would like to know exactly what was better than average about their lyrics in their sub par band.

Production, the highest rating... and all you said was something about adding synth.

And did you really have to mention the song titles over something like prodcution or lyrics? That really makes it seem as tho you we're striving to drive them even further into the ground.

when you write a review for something that alot of people may read. Be concrete, you certainly were not.

Now i'll sit and wait for the response with some sort of insult because maybe you can't take critisim about your own review. Why in the hell would you give critism if you can't take it? You've done nothing but bash or beat down someone who had ANY sort of problem with your review.
I just get pretty pissed when someone either says or insinuates I "didn't listen." IDC about criticism, when it's actually presented correctly, but not a soul on these boards seems capable of that.

Lyrics were above average, I saw no reason to delve into them on a once over review. And I'm not sure if you've read any other reviews of mine, but I think it's quite clear I can drone on about song structures and describe the songs. This review was done from this focal point because, in my opinion, the similarities were overwhelming. Production, IMO, didn't really need mentioning; most people just want to know there's a high production value, which there was. Including that the tracks sounded well recorded and mixed wouldn't have taken away from the harshness off the review, it just would have seemed off topic. I wasn't mad when writing the review; I have absolutely no vendetta against this band, either before or after this review.

[Handraa]

at what point did I say there was something new about this ep?
never, i was pointing out that what I had analyzed from this music in a response to your claim of a "complete" rip off.

Sounds like you have to make claims to try to offend when someone actually replies with support backing their argument, unlike you. Read Before you respond.

and klatze,

" I get this is some local band that you dig"

I do, but again I didn't say that. In my post I didn't even say weather or not I liked them. Everyone can improve, and no they are not worthy of getting somewhere yet, But with work I believe they will.

"Oh, and "had I actually listened to it.." gtfo, I listened to these songs at least 10+ times each before writing this. On more than one of those occasions, I believe Handra was actually with me."

Your review comes off as if you we're in a bad mood from the first place, you made it not only clear but offensively clear that they sound alike. Who we're you actually talking about were you talking about? how bad alesana is? or how this band reminds of so much of alesana. Either way the point is this review is not SOLELY about the band, which (IN MY OPINON) makes me feel you can't dictate the music enough to actually talk about it without relating it to something.

How did you anylze it did you read the lyrics and think about it? Thats one of the places you gave it a somewhat good score? Why? that was no where in your review and I'm pretty sure the band itself would like to know exactly what was better than average about their lyrics in their sub par band.

Production, the highest rating... and all you said was something about adding synth.

And did you really have to mention the song titles over something like prodcution or lyrics? That really makes it seem as tho you we're striving to drive them even further into the ground.

when you write a review for something that alot of people may read. Be concrete, you certainly were not.

Now i'll sit and wait for the response with some sort of insult because maybe you can't take critisim about your own review. Why in the hell would you give critism if you can't take it? You've done nothing but bash or beat down someone who had ANY sort of problem with your review.
If you think this EP is sooo good, write a review up for it, that way everyone can praise your perfect review.

[more heart]

I just get pretty pissed when someone either says or insinuates I "didn't listen." IDC about criticism, when it's actually presented correctly, but not a soul on these boards seems capable of that.

Lyrics were above average, I saw no reason to delve into them on a once over review. And I'm not sure if you've read any other reviews of mine, but I think it's quite clear I can drone on about song structures and describe the songs. This review was done from this focal point because, in my opinion, the similarities were overwhelming. Production, IMO, didn't really need mentioning; most people just want to know there's a high production value, which there was. Including that the tracks sounded well recorded and mixed wouldn't have taken away from the harshness off the review, it just would have seemed off topic. I wasn't mad when writing the review; I have absolutely no vendetta against this band, either before or after this review.
You're definitely hitting it lucky with responses to you reviews this weekend eh?

[Klatzke]

You're definitely hitting it lucky with responses to you reviews this weekend eh?
Oh yeah. You got it. haha. The other person is way more ridiculous than this one though, even though they're both insinuating I apparently don't listen to albums when I review them, even though i'm able to pick out details about the songs, etc.

[Klatzke]

To say that I'm insulting is quite hypocritical.
I'm not sure about yourself but if someone was to use the expression "get the fuck out" to me I would take offense.

secondly I never said you didn't listen to it, at no point did I EVER say that. In fact when you quoted my post I was actually directing it at your smart mouth buddy Handraa. To mock me in a post about things that aren't even directed towards you is ignorant.

I am not trying to start a fight, I'm debating and discussing the feedback.
I believed it was directed at me since the rest of the post seemed to be. And discussing is one thing but running in on a high horse and proclaiming me wrong is another.

[Handraa]

once again... did I EVER at any point say that this EP is "soooo" good?

No.
quit digging yourself a hole.
Hahaha k.

[flks511]

And discussing is one thing but running in on a high horse and proclaiming me wrong is another.
It is possible for you to be wrong, dude.

[Klatzke]

It is possible for you to be wrong, dude.
Yeah, if you ask me a science question and I give the incorrect answer.

But asking, "Hey, what do you think of this album?"

It's a fucking opinion, so no I can't. Don't worry, no more negative reviews from me, from here on out it's happiness and sunshine for each one. Apparently people can't handle a harsh (yet truthful) review.

[Mike Unstincs]

Well I really liked it, I think Whispered Hallows is great. I disagree with the review.
I thought the review in general was your typical sub-standard review from someone with a meager cd collection. I found the comparisons to another band generic, and lacking in any real substance.
I do see a pattern developing here though, in the sense that certain people just seem to unqualified to comment on music when they are somewhat clueless about what goes into the work involved. It is really a shame that some Bands work so hard only to see years of toil and heartache put down this way. A few paragraphs to the wrong people and the next thing you know you have a small epidemic of disdain and negative fallout.
shame.

[Klatzke]

Well I really liked it, I think Whispered Hallows is great. I disagree with the review.
I thought the review in general was your typical sub-standard review from someone with a meager cd collection. I found the comparisons to another band generic, and lacking in any real substance.
I do see a pattern developing here though, in the sense that certain people just seem to unqualified to comment on music when they are somewhat clueless about what goes into the work involved. It is really a shame that some Bands work so hard only to see years of toil and heartache put down this way. A few paragraphs to the wrong people and the next thing you know you have a small epidemic of disdain and negative fallout.
shame.
Well you're wrong again. I actually spoke to the band about this afterwards and they seemed to find my criticisms constructive, actually going as far as asking for any advice I had about them I hadn't put in the review or failed to mention.

It's not really surprising to me that you liked it either, you seem to enjoy reacting to negative reviews for releases a large amount of people consider bad. Plus, comparing a band to a band that they sound like isn't really "generic and lacking in substance" in any way, since they do sound eerily similar to Alesana.

[Mike Unstincs]

Well you're wrong again. I actually spoke to the band about this afterwards and they seemed to find my criticisms constructive, actually going as far as asking for any advice I had about them I hadn't put in the review or failed to mention.

It's not really surprising to me that you liked it either, you seem to enjoy reacting to negative reviews for releases a large amount of people consider bad. Plus, comparing a band to a band that they sound like isn't really "generic and lacking in substance" in any way, since they do sound eerily similar to Alesana.
As this is all just opinion anyways, please try to respect mine.
I cannot be wrong if I have an opinion can I? I find that rather condescending coming from you for no reason. Please try to keep your comments based on music and what I like.
I do not think this sounds like Alesana. I am glad you spoke with the band, I am sure they have a high opinion of you now and are on the road to greatness.
You truly are a career saver! I am sure they are grateful.

[Klatzke]

As this is all just opinion anyways, please try to respect mine.
I cannot be wrong if I have an opinion can I? I find that rather condescending coming from you for no reason. Please try to keep your comments based on music and what I like.
I do not think this sounds like Alesana. I am glad you spoke with the band, I am sure they have a high opinion of you now and are on the road to greatness.
You truly are a career saver! I am sure they are grateful.
Haha. You realize that all you've done in every thread you've entered is make the band look bad right? If this is how their fans act, I don't think anyone wants to even check them out. And he asked for my opinion on the music (kinda why they sent me the CD) and asked for my opinion afterwards. After 200+ reviews man, I think I've got an informed opinion. I'm not some idiot coming out of nowhere (unlike you) making ridiculous claims based on absolutely no fact. Obviously I'm just sharing an opinion, but that's completely different from what you've done. They wouldn't send me albums if they didn't want my opinion, so I think you need to respect it.

And as for me commenting on what you like - you've already stated what you like in these threads, I was just joining those two together to form a hypothesis using actual logic (something you've proven incapable of).

You're just coming across as an asshole that knows absolutely nothing about what he's talking about, and if you don't have anything constructive to say, I'd rather you just not reply. I normally don't react like this to people, and in more than one instance I've been told someone didn't like my review or disagreed with my opinion, which is usually met with a "sorry you disagree, too bad you couldn't get into the album or the review." However, personal attacks and statements based completely out of the realm of "fact" completely piss me off.

As a matter of fact, your buddy LongDistanceDrunk has criticized my writing before, and there was no reaction like this because he actually said something constructive.

[Mike Unstincs]

Klatzke , You seem to be outspoken on most subjects relating to music, please tell us us all about your Music Education, background and qualifications.
I am sure many of us would love to share in the knowledge you have and Maybe you could even realize some of it with us and enlighten some of us that are deprived musically.
We do know you like to write here, abundantly.
200 reviews, wow. You could write a book!

[Klatzke]

Klatzke , You seem to be outspoken on most subjects relating to music, please tell us us all about your Music Education, background and qualifications.
I am sure many of us would love to share in the knowledge you have and Maybe you could even realize some of it with us and enlighten some of us that are deprived musically.
We do know you like to write here, abundantly.
200 reviews, wow. You could write a book!
I've got nothing to say to you, and I have no reason to. Keep attacking me and I'll report you for harassment. You're a 14 year old boy that needs to get a grip on the fact that things don't go your way. Write 200 well respected reviews; then come talk to me. I told you unless you had something constructive it was pointless to reply.

Bye.

[flks511]

Yeah, if you ask me a science question and I give the incorrect answer.

But asking, "Hey, what do you think of this album?"

It's a fucking opinion, so no I can't. Don't worry, no more negative reviews from me, from here on out it's happiness and sunshine for each one. Apparently people can't handle a harsh (yet truthful) review.
Dude, I'm not against negative reviews, and it's not like I'm a fan of this band upset that you gave them a bad review, I haven't even heard this before. But other posters also seem to think that your comparisons to Alesana were excessive and also not accurate.

So the singer sounds like Shawn Milke....ok, it's voice, he can't change his voice....Escape the Fate aren't ripping off From First to Last, are they? The muliple screamers? Lots of bands have more than one screamer, and like some other poster said, I've never heard Alesana break into blue grass or write a song using jazz chords. Song titles? You seriously ripped on them for the name of one of their songs?

Come on....you can do better.

[flks511]

Well I really liked it, I think Whispered Hallows is great. I disagree with the review.
I thought the review in general was your typical sub-standard review from someone with a meager cd collection. I found the comparisons to another band generic, and lacking in any real substance.
I do see a pattern developing here though, in the sense that certain people just seem to unqualified to comment on music when they are somewhat clueless about what goes into the work involved. It is really a shame that some Bands work so hard only to see years of toil and heartache put down this way. A few paragraphs to the wrong people and the next thing you know you have a small epidemic of disdain and negative fallout.
shame.
I think you're right. I agree that the constant comparisons to another band is just a way to take up space in a review, and that because they sound slightly like a band he hates, he has to trash them to save face.

[Klatzke]

I think you're right. I agree that the constant comparisons to another band is just a way to take up space in a review, and that because they sound slightly like a band he hates, he has to trash them to save face.
To save face? How does that even make sense?

[flks511]

To save face? How does that even make sense?
As in, if I admit this band is decent, I'll lose my reputation......read the post where I was actually talking to you, bro.

[Klatzke]

Dude, I'm not against negative reviews, and it's not like I'm a fan of this band upset that you gave them a bad review, I haven't even heard this before. But other posters also seem to think that your comparisons to Alesana were excessive and also not accurate.

So the singer sounds like Shawn Milke....ok, it's voice, he can't change his voice....Escape the Fate aren't ripping off From First to Last, are they? The muliple screamers? Lots of bands have more than one screamer, and like some other poster said, I've never heard Alesana break into blue grass or write a song using jazz chords. Song titles? You seriously ripped on them for the name of one of their songs?

Come on....you can do better.
I've found two new users for my ignore list. I've already backed those arguments, not sure if you'd like me to repeat myself. And trust me, even you shouldn't agree with that idiot, I can point you in a direction where he made an obvious idiot of himself and proved he has neither backing nor credibility behind his arguments with plenty of people backing me up on that.

[flks511]

I've found two new users for my ignore list. I've already backed those arguments, not sure if you'd like me to repeat myself. And trust me, even you shouldn't agree with that idiot, I can point you in a direction where he made an obvious idiot of himself and proved he has neither backing nor credibility behind his arguments with plenty of people backing me up on that.
Well, it didn't take you long to find another guy with like 30 posts to start shit with.

[Klatzke]

As in, if I admit this band is decent, I'll lose my reputation......read the post where I was actually talking to you, bro.
Haha wow. I dislike this band, and dislike alesana. Assume some more things you have no idea what you're talking about. I don't understand how you two can be so dense when it's obvious even more people agree with me.

I'm not saving face either, I rate albums I like as albums I like, and terrible ones as just that.

[Klatzke]

Well, it didn't take you long to find another guy with like 30 posts to start shit with.
He actually started shit in the other thread, youre once again displaying your ignorance.

[flks511]

He actually started shit in the other thread, youre once again displaying your ignorance.
I'm talking about this thread.

[Klatzke]

I'm talking about this thread.
Yeah, I'm not going to ignore him posting in another of my reviews with his assanine comments after the last one where he completely floored me with his ignorance.

[flks511]

Yeah, I'm not going to ignore him posting in another of my reviews with his assanine comments after the last one where he completely floored me with his ignorance.
Yeah, I saw the Madina Lake review, I actually thought it was pretty funny. But here, you have to admit, he has a point.

[Klatzke]

Yeah, I saw the Madina Lake review, I actually thought it was pretty funny. But here, you have to admit, he has a point.
Nah. He has no point. Attacking me on the basis that my opinion is irrelevant based on whether or not I've taken music theory, etc, is ridiculous. & I'd just like to state that two moments of music doesn't save a band from being compared to another.. Oh, shit, they have a blues solo and jazz chords! They're totally original even though they sound almost identical to another band!

[Klatzke]

Oh, and I'm done discussing this. I won't see your posts anymore.

[Klatzke]

Then you would be missing out on some sweet Silverstein reviews.
And Alesana. They all deserve like 95%. I know he's holding back.

[flks511]

I doubt that. He's just looking to start a fight and be disrespectful just like the Madina Lake thread
I'm not denying he's stupid for trying to start something with Klatzke, I was just letting him know that there are others who agree with me about the review. No big deal.

[flks511]

Then you would be missing out on some sweet Silverstein reviews.
I lol'd. I realize you were trying to sound like an asshole when you posted that, but I guess it was still kind of funny.

[Mike Unstincs]

Klatzke, No one is backing you, you are rude and un-factual. Now, about your musical background?
I found it very convenient that you wanted to cut me off right after I asked for your credentials in music. Please try and answer the question, Inquiring minds want to know your pedigree? If of course you have one, which, so far you have squirmed and avoided like the plague to answer.
You make sense only to yourself, narcissism has that effect on people.
You are harassing other members here, please try and play well with others, stop calling names.
You are turning into a nuisance.
Control yourself.

[Mike Unstincs]

dude, you are so right dude, I am all about the chill now. thanks for the talk man.
Peace.

[flks511]

I found it very convenient that you wanted to cut me off right after I asked for your credentials in music.
I noticed that too.

[Mike Unstincs]

I noticed that too.
All you need is a record collection to be a reviewer. At least the real critics were in a band or had friends in bands. Some know how to play an instrument or write a song, something to give them some credibility.I mean why bother reviewing a record and giving it a 33/100, seems like a waste of time. I would just write nothing at all, and it saves public embarrassment. This is kind of like posting your failing grade at school in front of everyone. Useless.
It would be ok if it had any merit, and it was constructive and knowledgable.
Too many young bands trying to make it out there, who needs this shit?

[Handraa]

dude you do need to chill.
Hes right man, personal attacks based on a difference of opinion are stupid.

To be absolutely clear, I think this band does have to potential...
thats about as far as I'll go with it, I don't there great, I do think they are good. I just disagree that they're a 39/100 I'd give them more credit than that.

Coming into a thread and trying to be hard with your keyboard and outwit someone just to personally attack them is so dumb. Keep it to whats actually in here, even though we argued a bit and differ on the subject its not like I'm gunna be like "fuck you kid! you hate a band I like!"

You know nothing about him, just the way he reviews music.
Chill.
I agree, I mean, everyone has disagreements, that's what this sites for correct?

[more heart]

All you need is a record collection to be a reviewer. At least the real critics were in a band or had friends in bands. Some know how to play an instrument or write a song, something to give them some credibility.I mean why bother reviewing a record and giving it a 33/100, seems like a waste of time. I would just write nothing at all, and it saves public embarrassment. This is kind of like posting your failing grade at school in front of everyone. Useless.
It would be ok if it had any merit, and it was constructive and knowledgable.
Too many young bands trying to make it out there, who needs this shit?
What the fuck is wrong with you? If a band sucks(much like this one), they deserve a low score. Would you give Brokencyde, Millionaires, etc, a high score just because they're young bands?

..and we're all great reviewers. You don't need to be in a band to be able to critique music.

[Mike Unstincs]

Dude you need to chill, some reviews suck. Get over yourself.

[Handraa]

Dude you need to chill, some reviews suck. Get over yourself.
Your explaining all these qualities a reviewer should have, yet have you reviewed anything?

[stereokiller]

i can't believe i read the whole thing(meaning the comments).

X-)

brutal review.

[scrambles111]

Kay so vocally i don't know really; i guess i agree with you? But i don't really care. Musically? Seriously? What the fuck? No they don't sound like shitty Alesana, because unlike Alesana, Whispered Hallows actually has skill. Chug Chug? I don't think i heard a fucking breakdown in this album, idk i listened to only half the songs, so maybe the other songs are all breakdowns? But i doubt it, because i saw them live and ummmmmmmmmm, no breakdowns. Maybe you should listen to more than vocals? Unless it's your thang...

[Andrew_dmdwp]

There is a pont to the constant Alesana talk. These guys are a blatant rip off of Alesana which is easily their biggest downfall. It would be the same as a band that writes shitty lyrics and not clearly pointing out that the lyrics are a problem.

This is a tad ridiculous, I've seen these guys live. And you could compare them if maybe alesana lost a guitarist and the other two gained skill. Whispered Hallows may have similarities to alesana, but to say they are a rip off is asinine . Most bands do have similarities to other bands, but WH isn't that similar to them, and they have a tremendous amount of more creativity and skill.

[TheTragicHero]

The vocalist do sound like Shawn Milke (Alesana) but judging by their high notes, Shawn sounds like he can hit higher than this guy.