The Hymn of a Broken Man cover

The Hymn of a Broken Man

Times of Grace · 2011

52 min · 13 tracks · alternative metal

A cathartic blend of metalcore intensity and melodic introspection, exploring themes of struggle and redemption.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Strength in Numbers — Opening with a powerful message about unity amidst adversity, this track sets the tone for resilience that permeates the album.
  • →
    Hymn of a Broken Man — The title track encapsulates the album's core themes of vulnerability and hope, blending haunting melodies with poignant lyrics.
  • →
    Fight for Life — This track serves as an anthem of perseverance, featuring driving instrumentals that mirror the urgency of its lyrical content.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album blends metalcore intensity with melodic elements, showcasing dynamic vocal styles and varied instrumentation.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album features aggressive guitar riffs and high-energy drumming, while the second half shifts to more melodic and introspective arrangements.
  • Vocals alternate between harsh screams and clean singing, often within the same track, creating a dynamic contrast.
  • Several tracks incorporate atmospheric interludes that provide a breather between heavier sections, enhancing emotional impact.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • contemplative reflective moments

Where this album fits

Career context
The Hymn of a Broken Man is Times of Grace's debut album, released in January 2011 after the band was formed by members of Killswitch Engage. This project marked a significant shift for lead vocalist Jesse Leach, who returned to music after a hiatus, setting the stage for his artistic evolution.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Strength in Numbers 4:16
  • 2 Fight for Life 3:36
  • 3 Willing 3:23
  • 4 Where the Spirit Leads Me 3:36
  • 5 Until the End of Days 4:21
  • 6 Live in Love 3:49
  • 7 In the Arms of Mercy 1:54
  • 8 Hymn of a Broken Man 3:13
  • 9 The Forgotten One 4:38
  • 10 Hope Remains 4:49
  • 11 The End of Eternity 5:52
  • 12 Worlds Apart 4:33
  • 13 Fall from Grace 4:57

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata