The Narrow Scope of Things came as a shock to fans of
Embodyment, as in place of the slight death metal approach found on their debut came a more passionate emotional direction accompanied by raw hardcore crunch.
Embodyment did embrace the more expansive talent of frontman Sean Corbray on this album, allowing the band to explore new dimensions musically, and these new directions also allowed the band to spread their faith-inspired message to larger audiences. "Winter Kiss" practically bleeds emotion, as Corbray seduces the listener with heartfelt lyrics while the guitars of Andrew Godwin and Jason Linquist weep with touching dynamics. "Pendulum" is one of the most aggressive songs captured on disc, as Derrick Wadsworth, dominating bass, bludgeons the listener into a emocore coma. At times Corbray's vocals are haunting in their ability to linger in one's memory much longer than they rightfully should, yet one of the only downfalls of this impressive effort happens to be the monotone delivery of these powerful lyrics. Overall,
The Narrow Scope of Things was the turning point for
Embodyment, and as it stands is their best record as well. ~ Jason D. Taylor