Throughout the 1990s, San Diego, California, became well known for its lucrative pop-rock scene. Notable artists such as Blink 182, Unwritten Law, and Sprung Monkey sprung up from the depths of the just-north-of-the-border metropolis. Towards the end of the decade a band named Over My Dead Body,or xOver My Dead Bodyx to the Straight Edge kids, started playing decent-sized shows and eventually gained recognition in the Southern California hardcore scene. In the early 00s the band reached new heights, signing with native So Cal. label Indecision Records. 2003 marked what may be the pinnacle of their band's life with the release of the album, Sink or Swim.
Taking the task to review the album, I knew it would be my job to explain to the non-hardcore kids how this album stands apart from other hardcore releases. At first listen, it may be hard to distinguish this album from most new hardcore. However, upon further listening, the amount of melody becomes noticeable. Even in parts where the singing sounds more like screaming, there is still discernable melody. Also, OMDB make it a point to change up the drumbeats to help distinguish between songs, something that more bands need to do, in my humble opinion. I cannot lie, though. This isn't the most original record or anything, but it definitely isn't just another grain of sand on a beach of independently-released music.
The lyrical content doesn't vary too much. But then again, most bands' lyrics do not vary too much these days. Even bands who receive constant praise for their lyrics, such as American Nightmare/Give Up the Ghost seem to stick to certain themes. One can expect songs about friends, overcoming hardships, and The Edge, mostly. And, of course when I talk about The Edge, I mean the choice to remain alcohol and drug free, not the action movie of the same name. Some may claim these themes are tired and overused, but if you ask any hardcore kid, they'd agree that these types of songs contribute to the best finger-point pile-ons, 2-stepping parts, and gang sing-alongs. "Bricks" and "Always and Forever" are great examples of what I mean. In fact, I'd recommend hitting up Soulseek and downloading those before purchasing the album. Old fans shouldn't fret though; there is plenty of classic OMDB found here. This album may be a bit iffy to those who do not listen to hardcore, but it is quite a good time for those who are fans of the genre.
