Rating:
Genre:
Rock
Release Date: 08/20/2002
Blindside earned itself a cult following in the
hardcore scene with two highly acclaimed
Solid State releases that showcased the band's vociferous honesty musically as well as lyrically. Touring the independent scene, these Swedish natives formed close bonds with then underground mainstay
P.O.D., a friendship that culminated with
Blindside becoming the first signing to
Elektra imprint label
3 Points.
Silence marks
Blindside's major-label debut, and finds the group reverting back to the initial aggressive
alternative rock from its eponymous debut, yet the maturity and slick production are quite evident. Working with
Howard Benson, the members of
Blindside have seemingly pushed themselves to the limit to propel every song on this 13-track outing with sincere emotion, and in the process these men have effectively learned how to write hit songs. The material offered on
Silence is edgy yet veers into mainstream
hard rock territory, allowing much of the group's
hardcore sound to evaporate in place of heavenly melodies. Older fans may find the tighter, more focused
Blindside a sour taste, yet
Silence is a courageous release that displays the group's immense growth from its abrasive
hardcore past.
~Jason D. Taylor, All Music Guide