True View, the sixth studio album by California outfit Stick To Your Guns, is a pleasant change of direction from the band’s last album Disobedient. Jesse Barnett’s lyrics have matured as well as his vocal range and style, which is put to use quite well in the diverse range of songs on this album.
The lyrics have been written with an emotional and introspective eye not frequently seen on a STYG record. This is also mirrored by a conscious change in musical direction, with a lot more melodies and well-executed, though sometimes a bit excessive, singing choruses. The album still retains a trademark hardcore feel and you can find some old-school heavy breakdowns and two-stepping riffs nestled in among the melodies and sometimes-haunting, catchy, clean vocals.
Highlights include ‘Cave Canem,’ with its hard-hitting riffs, anthemic chorus and ending with a booming breakdown. Overall, True View is a pleasant journey and shows that Stick To Your Guns are starting to explore new sounds which suit them. Whether you enjoy breakdowns, melodic-hardcore riffs or clean choruses, consider picking it up and giving it a listen.
