As I Lay Dying: Duane Reed, Nick Hip, Chad Ackerman (background vocals); Tommy Garcia.
Personnel: Nick Hipa (vocals, background vocals); Josh Gilbert , Tim Lambesis, Phil Sgrosso (vocals); Jordan Mancino (drums); Duane Reed, Tommy Garcia (background vocals).
Audio Mixers: Colin Richardson; Daniel Castleman; Matt Hyde .
Recording information: Big Fish, Encinitas, CA; Lambeiss Studios, San Marcos, CA.
Faith-inspired heavy music has come a long way from the likes of glammy '80s pop metallists Stryper. San Diego's As I Lay Dying are steadfast in their beliefs, but make no effort to force the message lyrically. For the Christian hardcore metal outfit's fourth full-length (and third for Metal Blade), Tim Lambesis and company focus intently on further developing their writing chops--employing muscular riffing, super-technical drumming, and well-placed death/clean vocal stylings. For a contemporary and well-suited production ear, AILD recruited close friend Adam Dutkiewicz (of Killswitch Engage). All these elements make for a much broader appeal on AN OCEAN BETWEEN US.
Professional Reviews
Q (p.97) - 3 stars out of 5 -- "[V]ocalist Tim Lambesis's unfailingly positive lyrics shine hope into blackened hearts."
Alternative Press (p.166) - 4.5 stars out of 5 -- 'The band still inject melodies into the album's obvious singles, but OCEAN is clearly a relentless, 45-minute speed-metal romp."
Kerrang (Magazine) (pp.46-47) - "By far the most aggressive, in your face statement they've ever made..."
