Grade: B –
Metalcore band Of Mice & Men is on a mission to develop a slightly new sound. The band’s new album, “Restoring Force,” achieves this goal. Aggressive opening track “Public Service Announcement” will remind listeners of the band’s last album “The Flood.” The evolution of the band’s sound becomes evident in songs like “Feels Like Forever” and “Another You.” Of Mice & Men incorporate a softer sound that should attract new fans. The lack of aggression in the record creates an imbalance that opposes the band’s metalcore genre. There are a lot more clean vocals in this album as compared to previous projects. The change in sound works in favor of the band. Older fans may question the direction Of Mice & Men is taking with its music, but for most fans, “Restoring Force” will be a go-to album in the listening rotation.