Their final release only makes this news harder to take, because it's their best yet. Lead singer Dan Cole commits completely in every song, and Ben O'Rear on lead guitar gives it up with the same level of wholehearted abandon.
Interestingly, the title track is a barely-there intro, a mere 42 seconds before the rock changes of "Never Look Down" hit hard, bringing encouragement to the doubting. Next track, the excellent "Starting to Sink," contains a blistering guitar solo that only highlights the painful story of homelessness and defeat. Lyrically, "Chapters" covers some dark territory, focusing most often on relationship woes. But the soaring choruses and high octane energy keep things lifted up, i.e. "All I Need" and surprising rock-pop track "It's Too Late," filled with exuberant hooks and smooth vocals even as it details yet another disintegrating relationship. "Time Will Change Everything" is another noteworthy track, as Cole's emotionally charged vocals ride above a looming bass line. Don't miss the blinding battle guitar solo that ties up this uplifting song. "Refusal" stands out for the hint of funk that peaks through O'Rear's ever-so-proficient guitar work. The whole band stretches out on the great bridge of this evocative song.
Forever Changed, you're killing us. We could really use another chapter.
