"Coming across like the illegitimate children of the superlative Jawbox, this is a near flawless collection of melodic hardcore that veers from the pulse-raising gallop of "...But You Are Vast", to the serrated dreaminess of "Small Skeletal" with a deceptively easy flow. It's the kind of record that could have come from any period in time, because it stands outside of what is fashionable, an island of creativity that will outlive its peers. Let them in, you won't regret it."
- KERRANG! (UK)
"The Shape of Hardcore to Come: IS DEAD comprises some of the most ambitious, stunning songwriting melodic hardcore has witnessed in years...Frontman Kristian Hallbert's vocal range is astounding, retaining his raspy demeanor while delivering falsetto highs and baritone lows. Lyrically, the band weave picturesque metaphors and spill forth personal and social conflicts so careful and articulate you'd think they were speech-writing for impeached politicians. Still, CIS' upbeat, melodic punk bombast remains...IS DEAD is an absolutely haunting and incredible landmark effort.
- ALTERNATIVE PRESS
"Previously a band known for putting the proverbial brick on the hardcore accelerator, CRIME IN STEREO IS DEAD sees the quintet taking a more musically adventurous path without losing touch with their hardcore roots...A great hardcore album? No, a great album, full stop. Long live Crime In Stereo."
- BIG CHEESE (UK)
"Crime In Stereo, in perhaps the most "punk" move of the year, have essentially created an album full of “F**k You’s” aimed at those looking for the same ol' same ol'. Some people are going to be mad, some are going to rejoice, and others will (incorrectly) hail IS DEAD as a revolution. In all likelihood, though, Is Dead will be a testament to those with open minds...."
- ABSOLUTE PUNK
"Never trading in integrity for a bit of token heaviness, the band remain defiantly tuneful throughout yet still retain the anger to deliver the necessary punch. Each song is expertly crafted, constantly shifting dynamics between ambient melodies and fiery call-to-arms choruses, with opener "XXXX (The First Thousand Years of Solitude)" and the meaning melancholy of "Orbiter" particularly fine examples Finally, something to shout about in an increasingly stagnating scene."
- METAL HAMMER (UK)
"IS DEAD is by no means an easy listen the first time around. But that is because Crime in Stereo shatters the preconceived notions of what the new hardcore effort would sound like. The band has flexed its musical chops and the result is something new and something good. For some people, Crime in Stereo Is Dead is as true a statement as they come. For those that are willing to give it a shot, Crime in Stereo looks far from dead -- they're just truly starting."
- PUNKNEWS
Photos from 6/13/09 at Broad Street Ministry & 10/05/09 at The First Unitarian Church in Philly were uploaded to www.discardthismessage.com this weekend! Please check them out :)
Somewhat upset at the length of the set you played at the last Toronto show, especially considering how you were the only band I came to see. Guess i'll just have to wait until you come back, always love CIS.
this is long overdue, but i saw you in boston at the house of blues on november 18th, i had never listened to you guys before, but I was seriously impressed and I've started listening since. I was so disappointed by the crowd though,people didn't give you guys the appreciation you deserved, but I LOVED how you guys still had great energy and stage presence. <3
Hey guys. Hows it going? We've just put our new ep up on our page check it out and let us know what you think if you get taht chance. Hope to catch you in Scotland again soon. Cheers Niall, First Step!
Hey! I saw you guys in baltimore on the 11th. I actually ran into Kristian at a diner before the show. I had no idea who you were, Kristian, otherwise I wouldn't have tried to sell my extra ticket to you. I feel like a dumbass.
anyways you guys were super good. like I actually enjoyed you. which I didnt think I would for an opening act since I was so restless to see Brand New. but you guys made waiting for hours on my smelly feet completely worth it!
woah this is the first time i actually heard you guys play. im impressed. i dont know what the fuck i was doing in pittsburgh when you guys played...? weird... anyways, hope all is well, keep in touch boys.
You guys were awesome in Montreal. That first song you played was enough to hook me, I'm definitely buying the record when it comes out. I was going to pick up Is Dead from your merch table after the show, but security was bull and kicked everyone out.
A lady was picking through the frozen turkeys at the grocery store, but couldn't find one big enough for her family. She asked the stock boy, 'Do these turkeys get any bigger?'