Released 18 years ago this October
While Broken Hearts Prevail
Emery · 2008
24 min · 7 tracks · hardcore punk
Raw emotional intensity fuses with melodic hooks, encapsulating the struggles of love and heartbreak in a post-hardcore sound.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Smile, the Face — This opening track sets the emotional tone of the album with its blend of aggressive instrumentals and introspective lyrics about vulnerability in relationships.
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Edge of the World — The song features anthemic choruses and poignant verses that explore themes of despair and hope, highlighting Emery's ability to balance heavier sounds with melodic finesse.
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Thoughtlife — With its intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts, this track captures the essence of inner turmoil and self-reflection, showcasing the band's lyrical depth.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The EP showcases strong songwriting with varied tempos but lacks a fully cohesive flow.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature aggressive guitar riffs paired with melodic choruses, establishing a dynamic contrast.
- Tracks four and five introduce slower tempos and more introspective lyrics, creating a shift in emotional tone.
- The final two tracks return to a faster pace but incorporate more complex arrangements, adding depth to the sound.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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6/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- cathartic melodies for healing
- short bursts of intensity
- emotional release in quick tracks
- heartfelt reflections on love
Maybe skip if you
- prefer lengthy immersive albums
- seek upbeat party anthems
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released on October 28, 2008, 'While Broken Hearts Prevail' marked Emery's fourth studio album and followed their successful 'I'm Only a Man'. At this point, the band was solidifying their presence in the post-hardcore scene, experimenting with more melodic elements while maintaining their signature intensity.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Underoath· The Devil Wears Prada· Haste the Day
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Do the Things (You Want)
The moment shifts from first-person reflection to an imperative urging others to pursue their desires unapologetically.
This change in perspective emphasizes empowerment amidst vulnerability, contrasting personal struggles with a call to action.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Smile, the Face 2:45
- 2 Edge of the World 3:50
- 3 Say the Things (You Want) 3:03
- 4 Ten Talents 3:26
- 5 Always Depends 3:40
- 6 Thoughtlife 3:46
- 7 Do the Things (You Want) 3:52
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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