Is Survived by is the third full length from melodic hardcore outfit Touche Amore and since the announcement of the release the big question has been, can Touche top 2011's 'Parting The Sea Between Brightness With Me'? It was never going to be an easy task, but its quite possible TA have done it. Like PTSBBAM, the main themes in the album are frontman Jeremy's personal struggles with life and as expected the lyrics of this album are intense, honest and heartfelt. The instrumentation and production of the album have improved greatly and this is really shown in songs like 'DNA' and the single 'Just Exist'. In the end, whether TA have topped their previous release/s isn't important, as Is Survived By is no doubt one of the most interesting records released this year. - J Cav