“Can you give everything you can afford to give?” are standout lyrics off the album “Count Your Blessings…” by Agents of Man. The album was released on July 13, 2005, on Century Media Records. This is the final album from the New Jersey metalcore/hardcore band. Agents of Man formed in 2000, releasing only two albums in their short tenure. The final release is an accomplished listen that packs a mean punch, combining melodic metalcore with New Jersey beatdown. These are two completely different ranges of the sub-genre that blend so uniquely and nicely.
The first track on the album, “Death of Me,” starts overly aggressive, with super angry and spiteful lyrics such as “you’re making out to be all you despise in yourself,” but is wonderfully met in the middle with a melodic chorus. This is not a one-time thing, as the whole album is a curveball. Whether it be the gloomy vocals, angry hardcore screams, or the seductive cleans, captivation is the subject of this record.
The band also re-recorded a track called “Headless,” which can be found at the end of the album. It is even more hard hitting than its predecessor and features a surprising breakdown switch at the end. This album can be found on streaming services, as well as the lyrics.
When listening to this album, the song that keeps you listening is the middle track titled “Truth You Hide.” It is so wonderful to see how intricate the song writing is, with such heartfelt melodies and aggressive time signatures, diversity is slapped all around the record.
When listening to bands that are not around anymore, it can be emotional and difficult. It is not fun knowing that the amazing music you love cannot be seen live. Enjoying live music in hardcore culture is so important, but sometimes bands do reunite and play special sets. That is something to look forward to when listening to Agents of Man’s “Count Your Blessings....”
For all who enjoy the artistry of this record, the bands Bulldoze and Train of Thought should be listened to next. These two bands are the much bigger projects from members of Agents of Man. In hardcore music, it is very common for musicians to be involved in multiple bands, which increases the representation of the genre in certain cities.
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