Farewell to Fear

BY DEAN BIRKHEIMER | Go Venue Magazine

“It is not light that we need,but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake.” — Frederick Douglas

December 11th of 2018, just two weeks before Christmas, and we all got an early present when we were treated to what was simply put, a great rock-n-roll show. With the same amount of enthusiasm, a child has on Christmas mornings, I couldn’t wait for this show to start. Out first were Mike Craig (Vocals), Jimmy Adams (Drums), Tony “Mojo” Lucero (Guitars), Jeremy Sevens (Bass) and Dirk Mercer (Guitar & vocals). These guys are collectively known as Farewell to Fear. Not acquainted with them, well you soon will be. A real-deal rock and roll band. Things got underway with “Dead Generation” a song that had me coveting long hair to sling around. A real head banger of a track. Next song was from the “New Blood” LP, a very pleasurable metal ballad called “Diamonds”. “Wake Me Up” was next and I believe this to be their song of the night. I know they’re going to hate to hear this, but it had a nice “Sober” by Tool pace to it. This was a perfect 3rd song as it shared the hardness of the initial tune along with the gentleness of the 2nd song. The gathering was now fully into this band and the songs “Your Cure” (which really gave us some great back-ground vocals), “Broken Wings” and “Underneath My Skin”, made sure the crowd stayed engaged. “Voices” was next and it’s off their 2018 LP of the same name. This was gorgeously sung and beautifully performed. A textbook closer. Farewell to Fear are on the road through the end of February, if they are approaching your area, do yourself a kindness and go see this band. You can thank me later.

SET LIST:
DEAD GENERATION | DIAMONDS | WAKE ME UP | YOUR CURE | BROKEN WINGS | UNDERNEATH MY SKIN | VOICES - Go Venue Magazine

Farewell to Fear is no stranger to success. Their first album, ‘New Blood’, produced the tune “Diamonds” which got well over one million streams on Spotify. The song also helped them gain recognition by climbing into the top-ten on both Amazon’s Hot New Rock Singles (#1) as well as the iTunes Rock (#8) charts.
Needless to say to come up with a second album to do as well or even better is always a tall task. But take it from me, this Pavement Entertainment stable member, have done just that with their latest release, ‘Voices’.
There are plenty of juicy riffs and thunderous assaults from the rhythm section throughout the album. And Mike Craig’s vocal are unbelievably haunting and mesmerizing. His vocal work reminds of Adam Gontier during the early years of Three Day’s Grace. I have the same feeling about ‘Voices’ as I did when I played 3DG’s self-titled debut. I enjoyed that compilation so much I bought two CDs, one for the car and one for the house.
This band took some time to put things together due to their long distance relationship. It began back in 2010 while Craig resided in Florida. He would make frequent trips to New Orleans where he’d meet up with Jeremy Sevens (bass) and Jimmy Adams (drums).
Tony “Mojo” Lucero (keys, guitar and b/u vocals) out of Lincoln, Nebraska eventually joined in. Those four were the core members who would get together in the Big Easy and jam. Dirk Mercer (guitar) from Morgantown, WV, was added to the mix later and Farewell to Fear was born and ready to soar their way to the top of the charts.
The latest album begins with the title track. It immediately allows FTF to get inside your head. There are some serious riffs and a chorus that allows the band to start clawing away at your rock-n-roll soul.
It only gets better with every tune that was put on the disc. “Wake Me Up” and “Let Go” enlightens the listener to what are some truly outstanding harmonies. All the while the musical background is forcefully feeding you a dose of good old fashioned riffs and licks. “Let Go” in particular is the song that drew me to the 3DG comparison.
“Misery” is the fastest paced among the ten songs. Although this wasn’t one of my favorites it still has a bite to it and shows the versatility that this five-piece ensemble has. “Your Cure” and “Waiting for Sunrise” entrenches the blissful sound of Craig’s voice inside your mind.
By now you are totally entangled within Farewell to Fear’s hypnotic web. But that’s okay because it somehow gets better. “Broken Wings” continues the strong bond that Craig’s clean vocals and the screaming talents of Lucero have had throughout.
“Underneath My Skin” is the first single from the album. If you’re not convinced by my recommendation yet, then maybe the fact that the tune is #35 on the Mainstream Rock charts. It is sitting between Butcher Babies (‘Look What We’ve Done”) and Motion In White (“Voices”). Others appearing on the chart that you may have hear of include Nothing More, Bad Wolves and Seether.
“Dead Generation” and “Take Me Home” close things out with a slower delivery but once again it gives a light to how very talented Farewell to Fear is. The finale is a remarkable blend of melodic vocals together with an acoustic artistry that produces visions of lighters and cell phones lighting up arenas from coast-to-coast.
I’m sure by now you have figured out that I highly recommend the album as an added part to your collection. ‘Voices’ has that classic rock radio feel with a large dose of grit. Craig and Lucero are prodigiously triumphant together. Throw in the chunky guitar riffs and the locomotive like sound of a tenacious rhythm section and you’ll have ‘Voices’ ringing in your ears.
Pavement Entertainment has found an outright musical gem in Farewell to Fear and ‘Voices’. I give it a high mark of a nine on my usually tough scale. It’s an absolute winner!!
Until next time this is Big L saying ‘keep those horns up and rock on’!! \m/ \m/ - Rusted Belt Chronicles

Farewell to Fear fares as another promising act in the midst of modern rock’s continually relegated presence. The quintet’s primary intention focuses on filling the millennial void, wherein rock music had been deterred by a plethora of erstwhile pop culture focus. Forming in 2010, the band draws on the monster riffs and memorable choruses of years past – almost like a vision of how the middle of the 2000s would have sounded had modern rock kept a healthy turnout in the mainstream. Their latest album, Voices, is a solid example of how such tenacity is still recognized, in spite of challenges that have persisted within the genre.

Opening on the title track, I appreciated their more direct approach to heaviness as compared to their previous album, New Blood. Stylistically, this album centers around darker, down-tuned riffs and pumping drums. The verses contain clean textures complemented by equally bold bassline in a balanced fashion. Upon reaching the chorus, there’s decent hook factor within the vocals and chord sequences, supplemented by a resonant call-and-response interplay. From the approach of the tracks to follow, “Wake Up” and “Let Me Go,” I further sensed a theme of one slowing to both an internal physical crawl, all the while their lives progress at an unending pace. The jagged metal riffs suit both songs quite well, and the vocals continue to ring with carefully integrated harmonies as they progress. It is at this point that the choruses maintain their prowess, but they come across as especially effective in the way the production is handled. Prolific musician Damien Starkey serves as co-producer, and together, he and the band champion a sound that may have polish, but with a seldom-utilized vibrancy that benefits the presentation throughout.



After a refreshing rise in momentum from the punk-inspired “Misery,” the album returns to an alternative metal foundation with “Your Cure,” a highlight track that initializes its midpoint. Based on the turn of events, its as if the subject of the song has experienced the worst extent of treatment. In turn, they reach a state of numbness after being exposed to such constant toxic repetition from who they otherwise hold dear. It covers a bizarre situation, wherein the main subject’s suffering is the other’s fuel, and completes that sentiment with a big signature chorus. “Waiting for Sunrise” further expanded on the feeling of internal constriction, with bleak, wispy clean vocals complementing the guitars during the verses. I felt these tracks work particularly well together given their thematic cohesiveness thus far, as it seemed like a sensible spot for their placement in the album. A triumphant note is expressed on the track “Broken Wings,” with battle ready riffs and sentiments of temerity and resilience flowing through. Both the clean and the more prominent gang vocals work well in this instance given the song’s mostly straight-ahead structure. Lulling from this surge of energy, the album is brought down to a midtempo by way of “Underneath My Skin,” its carrier single. Like a lot of newcomers to the band, this song was my introduction to them. It is by far the best track on offer, featuring the necessary components that justify a single’s potential – and all done reasonably well. I found the penultimate track, “Dead Generation,” to serve its purpose similarly. On the surface, it plays like a decent follow-up single, but thematically speaking, it represents the lowest of the low – a seemingly impenetrable boundary that keeps us motionless and deprived. “Take Me Home” caps the album on a somber note. While the mood switches to a more intimate acoustic register, there’s a bittersweetness to the theme that effectively interprets two outcomes – one where the subject is alive and in safe hands, free from harm, or another where their freedom is similar, only the soul has passed on.

Overall, Voices is a succinct, heavy-hitting milestone in the band’s career. Nearly a decade on the scene, Farewell to Fear continues to improve their sound, while maintaining a clear thematic focus that still leaves room for interpretation. Modern rock has surely come a long way from its prior heyday, but it has stood strong, and will keep striving onward. - Music Existence

I’ve never seen Farewell to Fear live, but after having listened to Voices, I’ve determined that they’re probably awesome to see perform. Refreshingly consistent, their latest release Voices (available now) is ideal for fans of metal, alternative, screamo, and hard-rock fans alike. Very heavy guitar, deep bass, good mix of melodic and screamy (perfect actually, I prefer if a song is going to be melodic and include screaming, it be used in moderation). Check out the music video for the song “Underneath My Skin” below.
Taking advantage of their ability to create very large moments within their songs, the title track “Voices” is an intense opener and a perfect showcase of what’s about to take place. The lyrics match the genre. They offer self-reflection with the just the right amount of loathing to keep it relatable.

This is gonna sound weird but I think “Wake Me Up” would be SUPER fun to play on Guitar Hero. Having played the game far too many times, I can personally vouch for how much fun the guitar riff would be to play. The Layne Staley-style backup vocals on “Wake Me Up” made for killer harmonies that I will definitely be returning to.

“Let Go” starts out on a soft note, and does an excellent job of using vocal filters as a build up into the hard-hitting chorus. I also like their use of synthesizers in the (which is not always the case for myself, but it really works in this song). I really appreciated the drumming on this track, powerful symbol work and double bass pedal always make my ears perk up.

Speaking of the double bass pedal, the drummer absolutely annihilates the percussion on “Misery”. There is a lot to be said for a drummer that can match the feel of the song using what is essentially banging noises (man, I love the drums). “Misery” personifies the phrase “misery loves company”. I never get tired of the way artists find different ways in which to incorporate idioms into their songs. Another strong representation of the album as a whole, I would love to see them play this one live.
“Waiting for Sunrise” was my first pick for favorite songs. The opening guitar riff offers an interesting tone that both clashes and combines with the rest of the song in the way that good rock music should. The melodic guitar riff in the verses keeps pace with the song and makes for an intriguing instrumental.

Particularly worth mentioning “Beneath my Skin” and “Dead Generation” have killer bass lines. In almost every case, the bass lines on Voices are just and engaging as the guitar playing. However, in these two tracks, they sound especially intricate.

“Take Me Home” closes the album by lowering the intensity with an acoustic song. What really stands out in this track is the heartfelt lyrics and strong melody. This is really the only time that Voices unplugs, and “Take Me Home” is like the mellow lingering aftertaste of rich fudge hanging out at the end of the album. I liken it to a nightcap.
To put it plainly, I think Voices is a great album. It’s well produced, perfectly consistent, and the ideal display of each band member’s immense talents. Every moment on the album appeals to me as both a fan of music and rock ‘n roll specifically. If you are looking for a solid album that will only get better the more you listen to it, Voices by Farewell to Fear will definitely not disappoint.

You can check out Voices and the rest of Farewell to Fear’s catalog on Spotify, and other music streaming services. It was released via Pavement Entertainment and was co-produced with Damien Starkey, who has worked with Burn Season & Puddle of Mudd. - McLeod Media

If you are looking for that mainstream rock sound with the monster sized riffs and huge choruses, then look no further than the band, Farewell to Fear. F2F have just dropped their new album, Voices (Pavement) and they are ready to rock your face off.

Opening up with the dark and moody title track “Voices”, these boys are off to a great start. When the chorus hits, it is all systems go!

Things only get better from there. “Wake Me Up” is a killer tune with an explosive opening. Personally, I think they should have opened the album with this song, but nonetheless, it is a stellar track that really gets your blood and fists pumping.

“Misery” really pushes that petal to the metal right from the opening. The rhythm section sounds insane, especially when drummer Jimmy Adams crushes that double bass action.

“Your Cure” and “Waiting For Sunrise” bring the tempo down slightly, however the songs remain heavy with soaring choruses.

“Broken Wings” is a standout tune. Vocalist Mike Craig truly shines when he sings “I will fly on these broken wings, can’t kill my dreams again!”

“Underneath My Skin” is the highly anticipated first single from Voices. All of the best elements of each band member come together to create an amazing track ready for modern rock radio.
“Dead Generation” is a call to arms with great background music. It is a message for the new generation that it is time to sink or swim in order to survive here on Planet Earth.

The album comes to a close with the haunting ballad “Take Me Home.” The sound is very reminiscent of the Jar of Flies era of Alice In Chains. A standout track, and easily this reviewer’s favorite song.

Farewell to Fear have released a mainstream rock album in a time when those kinds of albums are few and far between. Voices is a solid release, and I highly recommend picking it up from your favorite music retailer. 7.5/10 Stars. - I'm Music Magazine

Farewell to Fear was born out of the huge black hole that mainstream rock radio left during the absence of super rock stars like Pearl Jam, Alice in Chains, and Soundgarden. The band revisits that era with big rock riffs, big choruses, and big anthems for a new generation of mainstream rockers and that is just what you get with the highly anticipated new full-length album “Voices“, which will be available May 18, 2018, via Pavement Entertainment. It was co-produced with Damien Starkey (Burn Season & Puddle of Mudd) and has elevated the band’s sound.


Farewell to Fear‘s highly anticipated new single, “Underneath My Skin,” sends a powerful sucker-punch with its anthem of Love and Obsession. It’s an emotional gut-wrenching song that will inspire the devil within.
A couple of my favorite tracks of the new album are “Wake Me Up“, This track starts off with a riff by that just gives you that stink face right off the bat, it is so dirty in a fucking kick-ass way. Mike Craig vocals and the bands’ crunchy music just makes for a song that just invites you to love it. The balance between the clean singing of Mike and the screamer is perfect, one doesn’t outdo the other. “Misery” is another track that will get your blood pumping like they are going to explode out of your veins. The drumbeat in this song is so sick you just might need a doctor after listening to it. I love the blend of hard-hitting drums by Jimmy Adams and bass (Jeremy Sevens) into great crisp vocals as well. There are a few anthem type songs on this album but the one that sticks out most is “Dead Generation“, the title is dark, but the message is clear, do we want to survive the Dead Generation or stand up and take it back, but you have to fight for it or it will sink back into the black hole where it started. The album ends with “Take Me Home“, an acoustic track that is refreshing and dark at the same time, it is a great ending to an album that takes you on a rollercoaster of a ride that makes you just want to put it on repeat.

All and all… It is one masterful piece of music that has a great balance of heavy, hard and everything in between. If this is what we have to look forward to the life of Farewell To Fear, we are in for a treat, and they are on a long successful road to being rock stars for a long time. So make sure you go out and get “Voices” tomorrow!! - Ignite Music Magazine

FAREWELL TO FEAR LIFTS SPIRITS- LIVE IN CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS - Review, Photos and Interview!

February 6, 2019
Being from different parts of the US has given Farewell To Fear an advantage in blending a rock sound they intend to bring to the masses. Playing a show during the week has its challenges, but the band was more than ready to give the crowd their rock dosage.

I was unfamiliar with the band up until now, chatting before their set gave me some insight as to where they come from and what drives them across the US. Most importantly, giving people hope through music is something I found particularly moving.  Their love and joy at helping another person not feel alone is something that should be applauded and praised.
I was unfamiliar with the band up until now, chatting before their set gave me some insight as to where they come from and what drives them across the US. Most importantly, giving people hope through music is something I found particularly moving. Their love and joy at helping another person not feel alone is something that should be applauded and praised.

From the start of their set with the crowd being unsure to ending with people crowded up front and bouncing in full acceptance, Farewell To Fear easily won some new fans! It’s a beautiful thing to watch faces of happiness and hear shouts of excitement in experiencing live rock music.
From the start of their set with the crowd being unsure to ending with people crowded up front and bouncing in full acceptance, Farewell To Fear easily won some new fans! It’s a beautiful thing to watch faces of happiness and hear shouts of excitement in experiencing live rock music.

Leaving the show gave me much to reflect on, which speaks volumes to what a band can accomplish with words of encouragement and the musical rhythms bringing front and center. Be sure to catch them if they drop by your area!
Leaving the show gave me much to reflect on, which speaks volumes to what a band can accomplish with words of encouragement and the musical rhythms bringing front and center. Be sure to catch them if they drop by your area!

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You can find Farewell to Fear at the following:

https://www.farewell2fear.com/

https://www.facebook.com/farewell2fear

https://www.instagram.com/farewelltofear/

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/voices/1345735372 - Metal In, Metal Out