If
Jawbreaker had an illegitimate child, it would be named
God's Reflex. And if that child produced a musical album, it would be called
Scenes From a Motel Seduction. The similarities are all there: that awkward yet convincing vocal performance, the changeup between blazing punk beats and emotionally charged introspective moments, and the intelligently cryptic lyrics. Based on a concept by the band, the lyrics primarily detail romance and life and do so in a manner that is open to interpretation while simultaneously being complex. The entire package of the album, from the artwork to the music, is one best described as autumnal and/or wintry.
God's Reflex has peaked in its maturity on this ten-song album, showing not only how punk can still be relevant, but to a greater extent how it can be interwoven with quiet ballads and broken hearts to speak to everyone. Easily the best work by the band as well as some of the best of the genre, this album may fly under the radar of many punk and emo fans due to numerous factors. However, that does not mean it is not worth the attention of people who have enjoyed acts such as
Jawbreaker,
Samiam, and
Texas Is the Reason. ~ Kurt Morris