We Are The Fallen – Tear The World Down
If you know anything about me or have read my staff profile, then you know I have a strong aversion to female fronted rock and metal bands, particularly those with a flair for the dramatic. With that being said, I have always had a weakness for Evanescence though. So naturally I was curious to hear the debut album from We Are The Fallen since the band is comprised of three of Evanescence’s former members – Ben Moody, John LeCompt and Rocky Gray. Completing the line up are Marty O’Brien and American Idol finalist Carly Smithson. With a collective resume that includes bands such as Living Sacrifice, Soul Embraced, and Machina, will We Are The Fallen be able to step out of the shadows and forge their own identity?
Before we get into the album specifically, let’s go ahead and clear the proverbial air here. We Are The Fallen have caused quite a bit of controversy and have been prematurely labeled by many as an Evanescence knockoff. Unfortunately, for that reason, Smithson will most likely not get the opportunity she deserves to prove she is much more than a second rate Amy Lee (Evanescence’s vocalist). As much as I love Lee’s vocals, I have to admit that Smithson has a vocal range Lee could only dream of. Gone are Lee’s relatively thin, yet over-processed, auto-tuned, and heavily layered vocals found on Evanescence albums. In their place, you’ll find Smithson’s beautiful harmonies, incredible range and mature vocal tone, proving that she is definitely not Lee’s subordinate.
Tear The World Down has so many noteworthy songs it’s nearly impossible to mention them all. The album’s third track, “Paradigm”, is where the album finally grabbed hold of my attention. From the lullaby style intro, to the catchy and memorable choruses laid perfectly over punchy guitars, the song has all the necessary elements to be a success. “Don’t Leave Me Behind” introduces more prevalent piano to the mix that’s very reminiscent of Amorphis and Paradise Lost, mixed with a hint of Lacuna Coil (though not vocally).
“Sleep Well, My Angel” is a piano driven ballad where Smithson is really given an opportunity to shine vocally, while exercising impeccable control and restraint. As I mentioned earlier, I typically don’t find female vocals appealing, though Smithson is an exception. The difference is that she fits comfortably between raspy/throaty and operatic within the common female vocal spectrum. There were very few instances throughout the album where her vocals became annoying. So few, in fact, that I can’t point those instances out specifically.
“St. John” is the one song where Smithson sounds eerily comparable to Lee, and it’s only during the verses while she’s singing in her lower register. Once she crosses the threshold into her upper register, she steps back into her own and takes charge of the song. The staccato nature of the choruses feels a bit frenzied and deranged (to me), but is fitting considering the song is about a child being unjustly imprisoned in an asylum. In “I Am Only One”, the band goes back to another piano driven ballad. While it starts out somewhat subdued, the song really builds momentum toward the end of the first verse and transitions into a beautifully harmonized chorus.
Perhaps my two favorite tracks are “Through Hell” and the album’s title track. “Through Hell” has Smithson shifting to a more sultry tone during the verses, which lead brilliantly into an incredible Arabian melody and open, singable choruses. The album’s closer and title track is without a doubt my favorite song on the album. Opening strings and choir style vocals present a docile introduction to an absolute powerhouse of a song that is destined to be a single. Featuring a flawless arrangement, the song showcases just how talented this band is. Combining pounding drum work with captivating choir vocals, it is truly just as angelic as it is massive and crushing. If you only listen to one song on this album, make sure it’s this one!
Tear The World Down is definitely a solid album from a band that certainly seems to have a promising career ahead of them. This is precisely the debut We Are The Fallen needed to step out of Evanescence’s shadow and into their own spotlight.
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30 Comments
May 11th, 2010 at 11:59 pm
Very nice review. I am not a big fan of the female lead metal/rock band either so im with you on that. Theres a few that I like that are more metal and a lot heavier in nature i.e. Arch Enemy, Walls of Jericho, OTEP, but I must say that Carly Smithson has got some serious pipes. I remember her from American Idol. She makes We Are The Fallen a lot more credible than Evanescence. They also have more of an edge than Evanescence. She blows Amy Lee out of the water vocally and thats what makes or breaks a band like this. Its all about the vocals and she has it and then some. This wasnt even on my radar but after hearing the samples and reading your review I just may have to give it a shot.
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May 12th, 2010 at 12:00 am
nice review, and a few things of my own to add:
top rockers for me – Paradigm and St John
top ballads – SWMA and I Will Stay
very solid debut album for a band that i've been waiting for since 2004. the exclusive bonus track available from http://www.napster.com called Samhain is right up there with my fav rockers and i highly recommend everyone get it asap.
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May 12th, 2010 at 8:31 am
I think you're nuts Ms. Reviewer. This band IS Evanescence. They only difference is that they got a new lead singer. And what the hell? Amy Lee does not use Auto-tune you idiot. She's not Lil Wayne. And the only founding members of Evanescence are Ben Moody and Amy Lee. Get your facts straight PLEASE!
We Are The Fallen is clearly feeding off of Evanescence fan's nostlagia with a seven year old album.
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May 12th, 2010 at 10:33 am
Jenny, you must be an Evanesence fangirl or something. To say that Amy Lee doesn't benefit from auto-tune is crazy. Just because she doesn't sound like a robot does not mean the effects aren't there. Anyone with any musical knowledge knows this, which obviously excludes you. 99% of the artists today use pro-tools and some form of auto-tune in the studio. So on that point you are dead wrong. As far as the band feeding off Evanescence and releasing a seven year old album, you are right. Seeing that Evanescence is basically dormant it’s called SMART business. Bands and labels do this all the time and the majority of people still buy the product. I'm not a fan of either band, but get your facts straight first. Close your mouth sweetie, you look like a trout.
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May 12th, 2010 at 10:37 am
I have always been a Ben Moody fan and this CD did not disappoint. It gets better every time I listen to it.
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May 12th, 2010 at 12:37 pm
This cd is growing on me…….it has some really catchy songs.
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May 12th, 2010 at 8:58 pm
Matt, its called slithery shit that's brewing. And I'm no Evanescence fan so shut the f-ck up. And excuse me you flamboyant piece of sh-t, you only corrected me on only one fact. The rest were fine. Next time you try to sound like "The Wise One", be wise enough to look back at my comment that I wrote and not be so clumsy and don't get carried away in the moment.
And just so its clear, We Are The Fallen is Evanescence so for them to break any comparisons is futile. And this review licks their ass and its full of it.
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May 12th, 2010 at 9:22 pm
Jenny, you are truly showing your immaturity. When you grow up and are ready to discuss things like grown ups do, then come back and see me. Actually, this review does nothing of the sort. I have read plenty of other reviews that kiss more ass than this one does. Its an unbiased person who has given their opinion on a album, Nothing more, nothing less. If you actually read the review you would notice that she is a fan of Evanesence and was open minded enough not to throw the band under the bus due to comparisons. If you don't like the review, then why do you continue to waste your time? Like they say, Ignorance is bliss.
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May 12th, 2010 at 9:29 pm
I bought this cd today and I really like it. Good job Jen
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May 13th, 2010 at 5:58 am
Hidden due to low comment rating. Click here to see.
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May 13th, 2010 at 7:19 am
I could care less whether I like this band or not. I'm just amazed at how the fans go back and forth for absolute nonsense.
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May 13th, 2010 at 10:29 am
Arguing on the internet is so stupid.
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May 13th, 2010 at 7:36 pm
Nice work on the review, Jennifer. I had completely forgotten about this until I noticed that you had a chance to review it. I remember Smithson from American Idol that year mainly because I overheard her somewhere and she blew me away. Amy Lee's vocals aren't even on the same level as Carly's. Like jakester, this album wasn't even on my radar until now.
Also, Jenny, you might want to do a fact check yourself, darling. Rocky Gray, Ben Moody and John LeCompt are ALL former members of Evanescence. Maybe you should research things before you throw around accusations.
Also, auto-tune isn't as blatantly obvious as with artists like Lil Wayne. There are a lot of artists that use it and you wouldn't know it.
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May 13th, 2010 at 9:50 pm
After I read your review, I think I'm convinced enough to buy the album! I've always enjoyed Evanescence and all those female-fronted bands. I just wish they change the band name. It sounds so dull and doesn't make any sense…
BTW nice review Jen!
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May 14th, 2010 at 6:34 am
Daryn, sweetie goose, speaking of fact checking, did I ever say that John LeCompt and Rocky Gray are not former members? Especially Ben Moody? Are you serious? No I didn't so where in the hell did you get that from? Exactly. And yes, I get that now. Been there done that, now zip.
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May 14th, 2010 at 6:57 am
Wow Jenny, you lesbians are really uptight!
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May 14th, 2010 at 7:04 am
Jenny, I misread your comment as "former members", not "founding members". My apologies.
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May 14th, 2010 at 7:21 am
LOL Steve. I'm not sure if i should be angry or laughing.. Daryn, its aight.
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May 15th, 2010 at 7:53 am
Annoying voice,i rather have a toothache.
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May 22nd, 2010 at 1:46 pm
Hey, GET A GRIP! ya'll arguing like that is a little bit juvenile! My 9and 2 yr.old nephews do that, But go figure their CHILDREN! And no they aren't trying to sound like anyone in perticular… I immagine they are trying to be as if they are their own sounds, Just because a band sings songs that are of other peoples DON'T mean they are trying to be them! And Auto-tuning, Hey a piano keyboard has that, It's called Attack sound. I play the keyboard… I have two of them and am familiar with the noise. And as for Carly's and Amy's voice: I can harmonize with them because I AM the same voice range, A soprano. I also took 4yrs. of choir in school- high school, But also even when I WAS IN ELEMENTARY SCOOL,TOO! So I too know about music… It takes skills and Talent.
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May 22nd, 2010 at 4:15 pm
So, Shannon, do you like the review or not…your comment is kind of confusing…
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May 27th, 2010 at 12:56 am
I thoroughly enjoyed the review Jen. I am, however, confused as to how it "licks their ass?"
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August 14th, 2010 at 5:11 pm
I rather dislike this review. Amy Lee's voice is more pure, more beautiful than Carly Smithson could EVER dream of. Not that I don't like We Are The Fallen, but Evanescence is a much better band. The lyrics really sink into my soul and touch my heart. We Are The Fallen on the other hand; it's more like music I listen to while reading a book or trying to fall asleep. Amy's lyrics are much more moving that Carly could ever dream of writing. But, that is just my opinion.
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Anya replied:
September 20th, 2010 at 3:52 am
I love the review! This is actually my favorite album at the moment. Ive loved carly since idol but I've loved Amy since Fallen debuted. Agreeing with Lisa, Amy is one hell of a writer, perhaps the best in the business. And yes her voice is pure and angelic; however, Carly's range blows Amy out of the water. The notes Carly can hit are amazing. They do sound like simliar bands but its expected as the ex members of Ev are in the band. Give them time to break away and create and identity and im sure it will be pleasing.
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Jen replied:
September 23rd, 2010 at 11:59 pm
Thanks for the kind words, Anya! Glad you enjoy the album too.
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October 27th, 2010 at 1:20 am
I am still not sure if I like this band yet or not. The few songs I have heard were ok. Cary's voice tends to get a little annoying as she obviously strains it too much. She also tends to have a nasal sound to it and she goes a little sharp…and not in a cool rock kind of way. I think that Amy's voice is a thousand times better. I have seen Ev live as well and she sounds even better. Then again I haven't listened to this whole album…so I may change my mind. I do think this is a good review and it does not kiss anyone's a**. Lol! It is obvious that you are a huge Evanescence fan that just happens to have an open mind, which is a good thing. I am trying to do the same.
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January 31st, 2011 at 4:21 am
We are The Fallen is an obvious attempt to try and make a few dollars from the popularity of Evanescence. The photos of Carly even have her trying to dress like Amy Lee. Quite frankly I find it fairly sick. The reviewer says this girl Carly blows Amy Lee's range out of the water and I must disagree completely. While I think Carly has a good voice she doesn't have half the range and originality of Amy Lee. This band will go nowhere. As soon as the next Evanescence record comes out nobody will give 2 craps about We Are The Fallen. Not a bad CD, nothing ground breaking and just exactly what everyone would expect from 3 guys who have personal agendas against Amy Lee.
The Open Door is much better than this IMO
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March 8th, 2011 at 12:41 pm
Good review (barring the final line, how silly). I listen to both WaTF and Eva on constant rotation daily (along with LC) everywhere I go on my mp3 player. I have also read alot of comments and reviews of Tear the World Down both here and on other websites. My thoughts: I think it's relevant to compare the 2 bands, as well as "Fallen" to "Tear the World Down". Anyone who thinks a comparison of these can be avoided is delusional. It is, however, important to rate this band and it's debut album based on its *own merits*, taken only for what it is and is not. Likely, one will notice some things about this album *immediately*. The first thing is that there is energy in abundance. There is a forcefulness to the uptempo songs that cannot be denied. This is a huge positive. The guitars are crunchy, the drums hammer hard, and Carly Smithson possesses as pure a rock voice as you will hear (and let's leave her stint on A.I. out of it, it's of no use here).
Negatively, those who enjoyed the sensational, mood-changing ambience of Eva's Fallen and The Open Door will probably be dissapointed here. WaTF hasn't rely nailed the tone or *mood* expressed in those albums. The ballads on this album strive to replicate this feeling, the emotional conundrums thrust upon the listener which beckon to them and must be heeded, but for the most part fail. Mrs. Smithson is partially to blame, as in all honesty she is a power singer and the subtleties of Mrs. Amy Lee are not hers to command (and her reliance on auto-tuning, not as premier). The other big failure goes hand in hand with this: the lyrics. Taken word for word, the lyrics use all the right "goth-speak", using words like pain/death/shadows/etc., but not assembled in any way half as creative as those used on Eva's 2 big albums. In fact, not even close. They sound pedantic here. Painfully. But, moving away from the ballads the power tracks of this album will annihilate your speakers and your soul. The strength of this album is clearly here. In a way, the album is stronger with all ballads removed *entirely* from the process; they just aren't up-to-par for the genre. So let's forget those and get to why you *will* love this album (given a fair shot):
Five tracks alone make it a great listen, and each is very very strong compared to most offerings in the gothic metal class:
Burn- My personal favorite, the hammering bass perfectly sets the tone, but it is not until the chorus that the magnificence of this song is achieved. The chorus of Burn is the one place on the entire album where the pure, raw emotion that made Evanescence so amazing shines through. Carly's vocals make you believe, drawing you in to die for what you believe in–for who you care for.
Through Hell- I believe every person living or deceased has certain mental defects. We may not acknowledge them, we may hide from them, we may innocuously refer to them as quirks, but they exist. Through Hell seems to acknowledge that there is more going on than meets the eye, and that most of what IS going on is going on inside out own heads. Brilliant.
Paradgim- Probably the single best example on the album of taking hard-driving instrumentals and varying them up with soft interludes and tempo switches. That sort of arrangement was what made Metallica the greatest metal band ever, and Paradigm is both hard as rock and sweet as sugar.
St. John- This song *crushes*. It absolutely deserves to be considered one of the best songs of the genre. It is powerful musically, but more importantly alludes to any number of dark, secretive themes most people don't dare think about: abuse, neglect, betrayal, insanity…take your pick, it could be any or all of those. Taken to the extreme. Killer.
Tear the World Down- Not precisely a symphonic masterpiece, but for those who like longer, more orchestral compositions with an *edge* this song is for you. It may even be a bit too long a ride, but it is a good one at that. It is the closest to a "sweeping epic" that this album offers.
Having said all that, my suggestions would be to compare where you will to Evanescence, but remember to step far back from that and enjoy what you are hearing for what it is. There is an energy to the album that transcends sometimes *banal* lyrics and souless ballads. Have fun.
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VN1X replied:
March 8th, 2011 at 4:34 pm
Do you have a tl:dr version of this comment?
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February 21st, 2012 at 8:09 pm
This is a solid review. I personally really enjoyed this album,and I am glad that Ben made a solid comeback with his new band after the whole Evanescence drama and childish accusations that were placed on him from a lot of EV fans for leaving. For the record been an EV fan since the beginning and that also means I was a fan of the founding members,specially Ben Moody. I have mentioned somewhere else that the combination of Lee and Moody was an enigma,that can never sadly return to Evanescence. The new Evanescence album is certainly a fantastic one though and Lee writes some really beautiful stuff still.
I think the biggest difference between “We Are The Fallen” and the present “Evanescence” is that “We Are The Fallen” sounds like an entire band really working towards creating the songs. “Evanescence” sounds more like an individual genius at work controlling all aspects to shape up the sound of their music. When I say genius,I am referring to Lee. Even though the new offering from EV sounds like a band album it still is lacking in complete collaboration of the band. Knowing the background of the musicians currently in the new EV line up,it’s pretty obvious that those guys are capable of so much more than they present.
I love their new album but it still feels that it’s more of an Amy Lee effort,that’s what I also felt with “The Open Door”. Although I enjoyed the new record a lot more than “The Open Door”. Coming to “We Are The Fallen”,their debut is certainly quiet strong. And I think if people started seeing this record for what it is,they might enjoy it. It’s not a copy of Evanescence because quiet frankly two people had a big contribution in making this album. David Hodges and Ben Moody,the same people that worked on “Fallen”.It’s funny when people accuse them of copying EV,cause I don’t get it how do you copy yourself?! Then bring John Lecompt and Rocky Gray in to the picture and more people just find excuses to compare them to Evanescence. The other way to look at it this is,that these people love to play with each other. Carly Smithson is not copying Amy Lee to be honest. I have heard a lot of differences between Carly and Amy,Amy’s strengths are in writing,arranging,composition,and really bringing out an awesome idea to fruition.
Carly has a solid voice and she hits all the hight notes without any struggle. I love Amy’s voice but Carly just has a lot of cool range that Lee at times struggles with,but many people won’t admit to that because they are too biased about who they like. In fact they are so biased that when Moody left,so that the band actually continues they started bashing him for all sorts of things he never even did.
I’ll have to say that “Tear The World Down” does not even really have the whole “Fallen” charisma. The record has it’s own identity. The strings/choirs are stripped down,the energy is boosted in terms of performance and the album is a lot more raw and energetic than “Fallen”. “Tear The World” down is not as dramatic as “Fallen” it’s a solid Heavy Rock album with quiet a bit of dark moments. Again I would say the biased EV fans would not give this album a proper listen and just judge it blindly.
It has got some fantastic moments in it and to me it’s such a fantastic debut from the band. If anything when listeners listen to this album a few times,they would realize that this is actually a record that is showing the ex Evanescence members are slowly drifting further away from their “Fallen” sound. Are there similarities? sure and it’s no surprise because Moody has a big hand in creating that sound that EV had in “Fallen”.
All in all,I think people can enjoy both bands. We have got two great bands now so why not enjoy them. The next album would be even more different from these guys. The more I listen to this album,I realize how much they have drifted away from their sound in Evanescence,if only more people had a more open mind they would enjoy this album.
I had been waiting for Moody’s come back and this does not disappoint.
Nicely written Jen!
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