Twinfold proves with "Quest For Expansion" just how much they've evolved since their last release, Codename: Snake Eyes. Previously being just another rapcore band, they have now stepped beyond the limits of said genre, showing the listeners a mixture of new school hardcore with some NYHC overtones and also adventure into the gardens of new metal while still holding down a hip-hop vibe. An interesting formula that works very well, especially when it's done by 4 competent musicians such as Pat, John, Mat and Gregg. I'll quote Gregg for comparisons: "I think we sound like if Refused and Snapcase hung out with Method Man and The Police, and they burnt into Deftones and Sick of it All". Couldn't have put it better myself.

Overall "Quest For Expansion" is a very solid record and is successful on covering a lot of different musical styles in an experienced way. Something that is impressive is how they constantly keep changing the tempos of the songs without making them sound confusing or weird. Vocals handled by Pat, or Phat Pat if you prefer, are very different from most other singers out there. Pat's screams can at times bring to mind a less harsh version of Lou from Sick of it All, while his rap flow reminds me of Eastcide's Jakob. It's very interesting how he works his vocals throughout the songs, changing from a medium tone to a scream to a rap flow every 5 seconds without losing the cohesion. John's (Papa Smurf) guitar riffs mostly remind me of new school hardcore, although they can also be amusing in certain parts of specific songs, such as "Over, On and Outside". Nothing very complex, instead it is mostly pretty straight forward, bringing the band's heaviness up to the surface. Mat's (The Mattrix) bass playing stands out at certain times, but mostly it follows the path paved by John's guitars. Gregg's (Xg-moneyX) drums are extremely aggressive when needed, while still being very technical and creative. Precise, yet powerful, Gregg provides more than just a background for the music; being essential for Twinfold's innovative mix of styles.

Twinfold's Quest For Expansion shows an unusual mixture of common music styles, and the results are nothing less than astonishing. Even though the recording, as well as the production, could have been a lot better, this album highlights Twinfold's talent which is almost hidden in Canada's underground music scene. Making music that is aggressive and full of power, and not fearful to mix styles, the band has reached a maturity level not easily touched upon in recent times, and it shall hopefully lead them to an even higher plateau in the future. It seems that the quest is now over, and that Twinfold have already expanded their musical limits enough to leave the most critical of human beings impressed by their aggressiveness and talent.
(4.5 / 5)