Dead Poetic came on the scene in 2002 with their debut Four Wall Blackmail, and followed the screamo style up with more of the same on their second release New Medicines. Now, with two new members and a new view on their music, they are ready to release their third record, Vices. The band promises that this will be their best album to date, but does the record prove that?

Dead Poetic has been best known for their sometimes cryptic lyricism and screaming vocals, the first of which is still evident on Vices. The title of the album describes the problems we go through, and how we need to trust God to help us through those problems. However, the screaming vocals that filled their two previous records is virtually gone on this release, and it works to their advantage. Vocalist Brandon Rike has cleaned up his vocals and this album showcases his true talent. Vices is also their longest album, with 14 tracks as compared to their last records which had 10-11 songs per disc.

Highlights come throughout, such as the rock-driven lead single "Narcotic," the riff filled track "Long Forgotten," the chorus/melody driven "The Victim," and the soft melody of "In Coma." The first two thirds of Vices is filled with rock riffs and heavy guitars, but the band slows it down more towards the end of the disc, with softer tracks such as "Copy of a Copy" and the title track. Some of the melodies don't mix well with Rike's vocals, however, such as on "Animals," but they work for the most part on the rest of the tracks.

Overall, Dead Poetic has proved that this is their best work to date. There are places that can use improvements, but for the most part, hard rock fans will find a lot to love from Vices, and even those anticipating more screamo from Dead Poetic may still enjoy what the band has to offer now.

- Review date: 10/29/06, written by Justin Mabee