Having seen this band a few times, I can tell you that they give it their all. They’re a genuine band, with a lot of heart. As such, I’m saddened by how mediocre this album sounds. I had much higher hopes for it; it’s a valiant effort but I was hoping that it would hook me more than it did. Things Aren’t So Beautiful Now is adequately satisfying.

The band could stand some work on their songwriting. There are a few really good choruses, but overall a lot of the songs blend together. It makes them sound like your standard screamo band; a heavy Saosin influence, with slight pop punk attributes blanketing their choruses. (Looking at how rampantly bands are imitating that style, ATFEH is probably one of Saosin’s better pupils.)

The songs Things Aren't So Beautiful Now (Part One and Two) are the redeeming qualities of this record. Hook heavy, and very memorable. Kudos on these songs, guys.

ATFEH is stuck in limbo, between good and second-rate, but closer to good. I believe that they can do better than this, and happily anticipate their next release.

If you want to hear the album, it’s being streamed in full on purevolume. Also check out their kick-ass cover “Dead Man’s Party”. By

-Mike Lopez