Orange County's Scars Of Tomorrow may have found themselves at odds with Victory in recent times over some rather unscrupulous label requests; but despite such adversity the band have still managed to deliver their new album for the label in the form of the heaving mass of modern metalcore that is "The Horror Of Realization". A pulverizing listen, the album revels in chugging riffs, detuned bass lines, crisp aggressive drumming and fierce barks and screams.

These qualities in itself are nothing new for the band, but with a better grasp at how to pace themselves, their music now packs a bit more punch. It would also seem as though the experimental bug has bit them as the group entangle themselves in a few ambient instrumental pieces throughout the course of the record, adding some much needed respite. Unquestionably, one of the bands most intriguing qualities is the raw feel of their material and the bold faced aggression it contains. The sheer abrasiveness of their songs and continual hammering the band put behind them can border on barbaric at times.

Adversely though, they still lack a distinct creative element that could elevate the band from the working class ranks of the current metalcore scene. In fact, a guest appearance from Atreyu's Alex Varkatzas on "The Hidden Grudge" barely stands out as many of the included tracks are made for the mosh and little else. Sadly, as proven here, one can quickly become desensitized to constant horror without some suspense thrown into the mix.