Undoubtably one of the most epic, moving and uplifting hardcore/metalcore albums to come out of the previous decade, and if it were a contender for "greatest core release of all time" it would certainly receive my vote. Naiad were a band whose career was cut short in its prime, leaving us only this EP, a demo tape and some split contributions in their wake. Their debut full-length was basically ready for release before the band parted ways for unknown reasons, and the release was cancelled.
One of the finer products of Japan's hardcore scene, it was a sad day I heard the news of their break-up. Naiad were the first band to introduce me to heavily atmosphere-oriented hardcore, and are still unbeaten in that realm in my books. Beautiful ambient soundscapes are scattered throughout the album, and even manage to find their way into the driving chuggy passages through the incredible guitar melodies. It's topped off by positive, hope-filled (even if a little broken in english) lyrics delivered by powerful and spine-chilling vocals.
One of the only albums I've heard I can give an honest five stars to... the only disappointment being that 20 minutes just isn't enough, which is followed by the sad realisation that a full-length is unlikely to grace our ears.
Hardcore EmotionReleased: 2003
Country: Japan
Genre: Melodic/Progressive Hardcore
"Believing Dreams"
"Song Of Nature"
FFO: Taken, Shai Hulud, early Hopesfall
