Review by Ryan Getz

It’s been a hot minute since I’ve reviewed some heavy releases here on Tuned Up. Time to change that. Let’s start with the electronic influenced post-hardcore dudes in A Decade Apart.

If you pay attention to all things Tuned Up on a regular basis, you might have noticed that they headlined our Steadfast Fest preshow at Victory’s Live earlier this year. This is for good reason. They are polished and ready for big things. They have rightfully earned slots supporting a number of larger artists, most notably Parkway Drive at the famed Newport Music Hall.

I’m drawn to this band, like I mentioned earlier, by how polished they are. That, and listening to them and interacting with them offstage has given me a heavy impression of authenticity and genuineness. You know what other band has given me this feeling? Jimmy Eat World. Neither band thinks too highly of themselves. They just come across as average dudes doing what they love.

And, in the case of Premonitions Part I, doing what they love involves tackling the tough subjects while adding in a hefty dose of experimentation. This is evident from the moment that “Impulse” kicks in, punching you in the eardrums with Joshua Hardin’s piercing screams and an on-point rhythm section. It also sets the tone for the rest of the record, with synth-driven electronic samples shimmering beneath the controlled chaos.

“To Whom It May Concern” aims to get your adrenaline pumping with some off kilter introductory electronica, before going into a straightforward, in-your-face breakdown. Listening to this solidified in my mind the idea that this band would pair very well in a live setting with The Fever 333. Another favorite moment in this record for me occurs in the chorus of “Viking”—the atmosphere created reminds me a bit of Underoath, and the blessthefall song, “Guys Like You Make Us Look Bad.”

The balance of the album meanders between loud and quiet moments… but no worries, it mainly stays loud! The quiet moments are mainly to give you a reprieve and make you appreciate the loud more. The interlude is well placed, to build anticipation for “Breathless,” which would make a good radio single.

So, in summary, you’ll find this release to be an accurate representation of the dudes in A Decade Apart as people, a fun listen, and you’d probably enjoy them on stage alongside most of your favorite heavy radio ready artists.

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