So God Forbid has evolved since their metalcore debut, with each album moving more in a thrash direction. Given their overall style, following in the footsteps of “IV: Constitution of Treason”, “Earthsblood” again is going forward for God Forbid. Opening the album with ‘The Discovery’ a semi dramatic piano/string orchestral piece, and yet, still relatively more of the same as ‘Rain’ falls down with metalcore modern riffing, Byron’s gruff and Dallas’ clean more melodic vocals.

As part of their progression as writers, the Coyle Bros. (Dallas and Doc), have composed some strong ideas on “Earthsblood” especially in the title tracks orchestral parts, changes and dynamics. Twin guitar harmonies again are utilized more, lead breaks, and the riff/rhythm section to ‘Shallow’ is a killer slab of metal. The hardcore attitude is replaced by variety in the music and clean vocals for ‘The New Clear’ and a needed change of pace (especially with those clean guitar breaks) than what is usually heard from these guys. 

I think what is holding God Forbid back from breaking into the mainstream like peers Trivium, Shadow Fall, and Bullet For My Valentine, is the redundancy in Byron’s voice.  The over use of Byron’s harshness in contrast with Dallas’ melody almost sounds as if God Forbid don’t know if they want to be metalcore or thrash. Also, the riffs and rhythms on “Earthblood” are not quite thrash but some of the lead work is. Are God Forbid still on a journey to find their niche?