Though never officially diagnosed, I am almost certain that I suffer from some form of Attention Deficit Disorder. Apparently, only 4 to 6 percent of all Americans actually have ADD. This estimate seems remarkably low considering the ever-decreasing attention spans of many modern hardcore/metal bands. From a Second Story Window are a technically adept quintet that sporadically weave various elements of hardcore and metal into tightly condensed packages. If this description sounds familiar, it is most likely due to the fact that it fits a rather large number of other bands that have materialized over the past decade.
There are quite a few moments on Delenda that, if properly exploited, could have easily been developed into more focused and technically exciting songs. But, From a Second Story Window have an agenda. From their mouths, that agenda merely consists of creating music for the previously mentioned 4 to 6 percent. To my ears, that same agenda becomes nothing more than a half-hearted pissing contest. Each promising measure is uncomfortably sabotaged in favor of another yawn-inspiring blast-beat or generic hardcore breakdown complete with unnecessary death metal growls. The band obviously knows how to create powerful music, but it almost appears as if they are constantly fighting to fill a quota within each song. Even when From a Second Story Window finally decide to remain focused on one idea, the resulting track ("Ghosts Over Japan") fails to capitalize on any aspect of the bands dominant strength. Instead, the musicians reluctantly lower their weapons in favor of an awkward, semi-melodious deviation that ultimately serves as the apex of the album's most uninspired moments.
It is quite apparent that From a Second Story Window possesses the skills, ideas, and energy to eventually become an exceptional hardcore/metal band. However, while some bands have successfully created a unique voice within chaos, Delenda leaves the impression that From a Second Story Window might be better off simply rebuilding from the aftermath.
