Texas in July’s self-titled follow up to 2011′s One Reality has brought their metal endeavours to new heights. Now, being a huge fan of Texas in July, I had some idea of what was to come with this much yearned fall release, but I was still pleasantly surprised with most of the new music. Their self-titled album hits my ears harder than much of what they’ve produced already, but they also makes gains in every other aspect of their music.

Texas in July brings what Texas in July has always done, and cranked it up to 11, maybe even 12. The new album, simply put, rocks.

Texas in July doesn’t waste any time with their new music. They start out HARD with “Cry Wolf” and proceed to rock my ears off. Chunky guitars and barrage of drums welcome you to the first (actual) song of the album. Everyone is pushing their instruments in this song. Vocals, guitars, drums, and bass…they all meet up to create a very simple yet awesome breakdown that only compliments the already beautiful melodies.

“Bed of Nails” also does a really good job of showcasing Texas in July’s hardcore drops and breakdowns. There are parts where they go hard, and parts when they slow it down a bit, especially in “Repressed Memories”.

“Repressed Memories” is a huge change in the flow of the new album, especially after a song like “Bed of Nails”. I was almost taken by surprise.

It gives drummer Adam Gray to show off some of his amazing talent. His flow throughout this instrumental is commendable. Although out of the ordinary, it was a great change up to Texas In July. Also, check out “Cloudy Minds” if you want to see more of him shine through.

As fast as we got ourselves into “Repressed Memories,” we jump right back into the insanity as soon as “C4″ kicks in. This one surprised me. It goes even further than Texas in July usually goes with a song. So much going on with this song, and that breakdown?…THAT BREAKDOWN.

Another thing I’ve noticed with Texas in July is that the music seems pretty even throughout the entire length of the album. All too often great albums take a turn downhill and drop off after midway through. Not the case with Texas in July. It charges right on through with the second half being dominated by “Paranoia” and “Black Magic”…if not just “Black Magic’s” breakdown toward the end.

Even as much as Texas In July reminds me of August Burns Red, they’re extremely different if you break them down. I enjoy one just as much as the other, but sometimes I need the simplicity and pure intensity that Texas in July consistently serves up.

I’m a sucker for these awesome chunky guitar riffs and amazing drum work. The music doesn’t have to be that complex for me to enjoy it. I’m in a state of total bliss after listening to this album, and then listening to it again. I love it. It’s like Alex and the rest of the band sat down one day and decided that they just want to turn up the intensity even further. Taking everything into account, they’ve done an amazing job with the self-title album and just make me want more and more out of them.

Texas in July – Texas in July    4/5 Stars     Essentials: Cry Wolf, Bed of Nails, C4, Paranoia, Black Magic