Post-hardcore specialists Senses Fail embarked on creating a behemoth record in 2006. They achieved this with Still Searching, which was an album bursting with flair and unruly songs. These songs paved the way for a revolution in the post-hardcore sector, and Senses Fail became the poster boys, the crutch for many dissatisfied people who craved to feel something rather than pain.

Still Searching had it all and more. It had that riveting guitar presence, and the breakneck vocals by lead singer Buddy Neilson, who filled the album with his evocative lyrics. He showed he could implement lyricism of the highest calibre, and his fearless input broke the mould, and he made himself a household name. His words also conveyed struggles and hardship, shattered dreams and cutting nightmares. And on Still Searching, he elevated his style and so did the rest of the band. It was a drastic change, all for the good.

And it was Senses Fail’s second outing. Their second album, and it the rawness was still there, but there was a maturity, and the pendulum swung towards greatness. As a post-hardcore LP, it swooped into the ears and brought people into the zone of loud, unapologetic music. That was messy but sincere. Not every song intertwined to create synergy. They stood alone as tracks of urgency and rage.

Loud and majestic, Still Searching didn’t show feebleness. The band didn’t show that their music was becoming subtle. Every song had its place, all songs were piercing, thunderous, and they were little notes of sorrow. The Rapture started proceedings. It echoed through and Neilson sang with authority. It burst out, and the chorus and guitars all interweaved wonderfully. Can’t Be Saved was the standout track. It earned many applauders. Neilson again sang with pride, warranting his stripes. The chorus was harsh but forgiving. Calling All Cars was another highlight. Those riffs and technicalities were precise. Such a dark song, full of discomforting notes. Lost And Found showed a softer side to the band. Neilson sounded perplexed by the world.

Still Searching was a drastic listen. An album, pointing straight at the world, wishing for an eloquent light. It was post-hardcore brilliance.