Death Before Dishonor-Better Ways to Die
Bridge 9
July 28, 2009

I wouldn't call this a reinvention, but it is a nice tune up for Death Before Dishonor. Known for writing songs that practically forced your body into an uncontrollable flailing of parts, with the possibility of someone getting a beatdown (in goood mosh pit fun or anger) relatively strong. While Better Ways to Die still has its fair share of heavy as hell moments, they've expanded their sound, and its added so much more depth, creativity and strength to their songs. Picture a sports team teetering on the brink of the playoffs but making the right moves in the off season to turn them into championship contenders.

Sure, the breakdowns and tough moments are still there, as are those killer sing alongs, but Death Before Dishonor have added a more punk edge, with the curveball of a metal-ish riff that opens "Peace and Quiet." I was chuckling a bit while reading the bio for Better Ways to Die, which said it sounded like a mixture of Rancid, Dropkick Murphys and Slayer, while still retaining their initial sound. I couldn't picture how that sound would work in my head, but they pulled it off cleanly. Everything is mixed together wonderfully, and each song is solid.

I can't help but think of Sick of it All while listening to Better Ways to Die, as they both have that hardcore meets street punk with sing alongs, great breakdowns and a tinge of metal. Death Before Dishonor took a great turn in their songwriting, providing them with endless opportunities.

Written by: RF
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