When I think of Embodyment, I think of one word: Evolving. From their beginning, with Embrace the Eternal in 1998, this was a band who pushed the envelope. Screaming was the key factor in their musical stylings but with Narrow Scope Of Things, a new singer brought a new sound. A matured quality came with the screaming and melody mixed in just about right. But now, screaming seems like a thing of the past and melodic hardcore seems like the key to their bright future.

I came across these guys at a Solid State Tour stop. I am not a fan of screaming by any means but wanted to see what all the fuss was about. By the way, if you've never been to a heavy Christian concert, you're missing out. As the night went on, bands came out on stage, did their thing, and didn't impress me much. The night was drawing to a close and this band from Texas came out. They began with emotionally charged lyrics which I could actually make out what the words were. This was a delightful change from what I had been hearing. They did scream often but brought in just enough melody to balance it out for me. So I decided to pick up their latest release at the time, Narrow Scope..., and after numerous listens, yearned for more from these promising guys. Then comes Hold Your Breath.

The album starts off with "Yours Truly," a good all-around tune, but not necessarily the best choice for opening up the record. "Belly Up," the next song, features that sort of tightness you'd expect from an opener, with a bass line you can't get enough of. "Set The Stage" is my personal favorite track, with guitar riffs and a chorus that just make you play this song over and over. "Binge and Purge" is up there on my favorites list with a catchy chorus that won't get out of your head anytime soon. The guitar in "Moving On" makes the song, and is another hardcore hit.

I only can find two minor problems with this album. One is that it begins and ends in oddly. The first song, "Yours Truly," and the last, "Cruise Control," just aren't the best songs on the album. This could leave some people with a bitter taste in their mouths, with it ending on a sour note of sorts. Also, the lyrics on the album are kind of repetitive. I actually loved this aspect, but it may turn a lot of fans away if they want something different for each song. If you like one song, you are bound to like them all. The lyrics are very artistic and I stress very artistic. It is a great change from the norm of things we have heard time and time again.

If you liked Embodyment before, then you should like them now. If you didn't like them before, check them out, you will probably be pleasantly surprised. The heavy guitar riffs are still here, the great bass lines are still here, and the same tight drum beats are also still present. The emotion is still there, however the screaming is almost gone. If you like emo music, then be sure to check these guys out. Say hi to the new wave of Christan music.

- Review date: 10/14/01, written by Blake Garris