Eighteen Visions established themselves as a metalcore styled monster with their previous releases and with a sound that was constantly unrelenting, fans knew what to expect. This is not the case with "Vanity" however as the group have begun to reinvent themselves, embracing melodic breakdowns and emo-ish singing complete with acoustic guitars and more, making this record a huge step for the band and one that will probably leave many of their long time fans scratching their heads.

At their best a more bare bones variant of Vision Of Disorder's "Imprint" era and earlier days, Eighteen Visions still tear shit up on most occasions, belting out ferocious growls and screams atop gritty riff laden hardcore influenced metal. But with "Vanity" they now also guide these concussive missives into drawn out melodic territory that can feel a bit out of place and weak in contrast to the heavier moments the band are able to pound out.

While respect must be given as the risks and evolutionary leaps taken on this album require balls, especially within a scene as fickle as the hardcore crowd, the motives of the group will undoubtedly come into question as the style of music they've now begun to adopt for themselves is currently "hot". This is not to say they've completely jumped in head first but with their sound now going so far as to include female vocals, programming and sullen acoustic strumming, one can generally get the picture. In the long run such choices will make them more accessible but a lot of it also feels rushed and uninspired. Groups like From Autumn To Ashes and Poison The Well have already laid their stamp on this end of the genre and their firm handle on the style unfortunately makes Eighteen Visions' forays into the arena seem a tad anemic in contrast. While more mature and most definitely more song based than the group have ever been in the past, "Vanity" still remains a mixed bag from a band continually prone to scenester controversy, making it somewhat of a shame that their music can actually be overshadowed by their onstage antics and continually stylish image changes.