I don’t really know what I was expecting when I received a copy of FACT’s self-titled US debut album (maybe the fact that they hail from Japan had something to do with it), but the moment I pushed play and the music came bleeding through the speakers I was hooked.

FACT originally started out as a metallic hardcore band, which there are definitely traces of on this album, but they branched out and brought in different elements of sound as well. Although synths aren’t the dominant element in their music, they seem to have been the main component in the development of their sound.

Their self-titled 16 track album showcases just how experimental and daring they are. Although there are hints of similarities in each song, every track brings an entirely different sound from its predecessor (and I love when a band is capable of doing that efficiently).

The guitars are heavy and steady and the drumming is usually quick, but every track is extremely catchy. The screaming is exceptional (and doesn’t turn into a growl or high-pitched insanity!) and compliments the vocals instead of overpowering them.

The album opens with “Paradox,” a song with a psychedelic intro that at first caught me off guard for what exactly FACT was going to sound like. However, the intro is short and sweet and almost immediately transforms into the swift guitars that are present on almost every track.

“A Fact of Life” is the third track on the album (and can also be heard on the band’s Myspace) and is full of synths and extremely speedy vocals. Although the song is good, it’s definitely not FACT at their best.

Its tracks like “Los Angeles” and “Merry Christmas Mr Lawrence” where the pace is slowed and the vocals simply soar. “Purple Eyes” and “CO3” showcase the band’s hardcore roots with double-pedals and thick riffs that are also present on “Stretch My Arms” and “Snow.”

The track that came as an unexpected surprise is “45 Days.” With echoing guitar plucks and the simple strum of another, it could be called the ballad of the album. When the other instruments come into play halfway through the track, it reaches its apex as the vocals are belted with heartfelt strength.

The final track on the album is an extremely long remix of FACT’s single “A Fact of Life.” Although it’s lengthy, it slows the song down a bit (which I personally think makes it better) and brings in every element the band is inspired by. Every section presents something different.

All in all, FACT’s album is a compilation of unique and refreshing music. It’s obvious that this band is straying from the mainstream music that hogs the radio and sticking to what they want to produce – and they do it insanely well.

FACT’s self-titled US debut hits the shelves on April 14 but can be pre-ordered on Vagrant’s website for only $5 (16 tracks for $5? That’s a pretty sweet deal!). They’re also playing at Crocodile Rock in Allentown on April 9 which is probably something you don’t want to miss.