The Fourth Plague: Flies by A Life Once Lost (CD, Aug-2005, Robotic Empire Records)

Having personally watched them grow as a band over the years, I couldn't be more proud to write this review. Philadelphia, PA's A LIFE ONCE LOST have grown into one of the major forces to reckon with in the current metal and hardcore scenes, but before working with Deathwish and their signing to Ferret, there was the fierce, groundbreaking EP making waves. Entitled 'The Fourth Plague: Flies', this CDep contains five tracks that showcases a phenomenal era of this true beast of a band. With more Swedish melodic metal influence than their current style, 'The Fourth Plague: Flies' is a pioneering mix of furious metal coupled with monstrous hardcore elements, including some of the fiercest breakdowns imaginable. With mastering tuneups by Scott Hull (PIG DESTROYER) and striking new artwork by Aaron Turner (ISIS), A LIFE ONCE LOST's breakthrough EP stands strong as a truly innovative creation and many of their older fans' favorite release.