Eleven Thirty Four

Reality Filter (New Age)
by Rich Romaine

Opening with the surprisingly melodic intro of “A Staining Impression,” Eleven Thirty-Four show themselves to be well-versed in both hardcore and “catchy” songwriting. Singer Matt Enright’s vocal are hardcore through and through, screaming lyrics filled with inner turmoil, determination to make a difference, and the frustration of encountering a never-ending string of roadblocks. Raised from the ashes of Function, Orange County’s hometown hardcore faves, Enright and Barry Fader (originally on guitar, now on drums) teamed up with Brian Balchack and Reid Black (guitars) and Darrick Rassmussen (bass) to form an original-sounding, intricate yet powerful hardcore unit. Their first full-length, Reality Filter, includes just enough metal thrashiness to give it the extra umph, but not so much as to make it cheese. Ranging from slamming rhythms and shout-along melodies to progressive and technical performance, Eleven Thirty-Four show off their ability to play, while not letting it get in the way of their songs. While not everyone may be a fan of the over-repetitions of select phrases (Rage ATM personally killed that one for me), others may find them to be the words they needed to hear.