HARDCORE WILL NEVER DIE, BUT YOU WILL

This album turned out to be a lot better than I assumed it would be. I have not heard any of Mogwai's post-2003 music other than a few songs, which I didn't think much of. I love the album title, it sounds like something I would say to somebody except "hardcore" would be replaced with a different word every time. It goes along with other wonderfully ironic album titles from this group (Rock Action, Happy Songs For Happy People). What stood out the most for me with this release is that it generally does not sound like your typical post-rock, even though Mogwai is one of the most popular and influential post-rock bands.

There is a strong post-punk/"New Wave"/"Alternative"/"Indie" influence on this album. There is more of a steady rhythm section here, although the music can sometimes be melodic or even symphonic at times. The opener "White Noise" is one of the highlights. A very uplifting and moving song, sounds like Sigur Ros on steroids. "Mexican Grand Prix" is more electronic featuring vocoder vocals. This is a very post-punk/New Wave sounding song. This song reminds me of the Canadian group Broken Social Scene, especially the whispered vocals. It also reminds me of Trans Am as well.

"Rano Pano" is yet another stand out track. This sounds like AC/DC on acid. There are certain sounds here which I'm not sure are made with guitar or synth. Starts out raw and aggressive but eventually gets more melodic and atmospheric. "Death Rays" is more typical Mogwai compared to the first three songs. "San Pedro" is a very indie/alternative sounding song. This also reminds me of Trans Am. "Letters To The Metro" features piano and is a nice melodic, mellow song.

"George Square Thatcher Death Party" is more indie/alternative. Again reminds me of Broken Social Scene. I love the altered vocals here. "How To Be A Werewolf" opens with interesting sounds. Then it goes into more typical post-rock territory. Eventually it settles into an almost 1990s U2 sound. It ends up sounding more like 1980s Sonic Youth as it goes along. "Too Raging To Tears" is more electronic, reminding me of Boards Of Canada. A great song. Perhaps the most melodic song on the album. Sounds like violin here. Turns into symphonic rock.

The last song "You're Lionel Richie" is back to traditional Mogwai. You hear somebody talking in some language, not exactly sure which. Starts off mellow and subdued but later gets louder and more rocking while still retaining a slow pace. Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will is a great 2011 release. A very consistent album, although admittedly, not every song could be categorized as "prog." This is more melodic and 'traditional' rock sounding than most post-rock. In this case, that's a good thing. Happy Songs is my fave Mogwai album, but this may replace it eventually. 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.