No nonsense hardcore crew By Any Means, and their most recent effort 'Built On Respect', could be described as a cult album for the average core fanatic. Although the album avoids small details of a modern influence, there's still something to brag about within the album.
After a brief introduction track, 'My Anger, My Gift' begins. The riffs are simple yet effective, with shouted vocals backing them up. On a whole, the music could be described as old school hardcore, with that major punk/thrash element. The most effective technique used throughout would be the gang vocals, revealing the true hardcore vibes of the band.
Tracks such as 'Mercury Rising', and 'Life Support', provide speedy riffs instead of the slowed down crusty riffs that 'City Of The Dead' and 'Hardcore Pride' show. This difference makes more of a worthy listen, adding to diversity. Favourable track 'Using Both Hands' contains the beloved gang chants as well as more diverse riffs than in other tracks.
By Any Means play a genre of hardcore that lacks what other bands have. Whether this be the insufficient use of breakdowns, or just the bland activity that goes on throughout. There simply is not enough going on to keep the listener thinking this is perfect. 'Built On Respect' is a misunderstood album unless you're a die hard fan of the genre.
