FRONTSIDE begins “Forgive Us Our Sins” with a motivational sermon about fighting for a place in the creator’s eyes, but some sins repel forgiveness. The band’s Hardcore heritage continues to smash its innovations into a common burial ground for chants and predictable compositions.

“The Accused” and “God Created Satan” mark definite low points on the disc where the artists regurgitate their theories with more conviction than craft. “Rain Of Purification” begins with a processor on its opening vocals, but the clean accompaniment that follows might tempt some to give the song a second listen.

“Cry Of The Debased” and “God Created Satan” host some melodic elements that, if combined into a single track, might result in a solid promo. As it stands, “Forgive Us Our Sins” begs for a good review on the street corners of the web with limited success. The release lacks spark and fails to break tradition (the definitive traits of Metalcore’s stronger acts). An inability to change now holds FRONTSIDE hostage in a powerful exoskeleton that may suffocate the artists before they can molt.

In conclusion, few tracks from “Forgive Us Our Sins” will survive on the world’s hard drives. Those who prefer a steady diet of roots might find a nostalgic moment among the wreckage, but the delete key will become the beacon for clearing away the debris and luring something fresher ashore.

(Online September 8, 2008)