"This is from our hearts," shriek Alexisonfire by way of introduction on their third CD. To us, it sounds more like it's coming straight from their spleens. But we get the point.

Just as we can see where the St. Catharines' screamers are coming from when they refer to Crisis as a darker and more mature effort.

Yes, these 11 post-hardcore anthems are still propelled by muscular riffs and beats and built around the dual vocals of guitarist Dallas Green and George Pettit. But this time around the sound is more deliberate and controlled, with the band embracing a host of new elements -- slower tempos, more spacious arrangements, stronger melodies and sharper hooks -- to take their songcraft to the next level.

The results can be heard throughout the disc, but especially in standouts like This Could be Anywhere in the World, Mailbox Arson, the ominous You Burn First and the closing ballad Rough Hands. What's behind this evolution, only they know for sure -- though lyrics like "my youth is slipping away" and "there must be more to life" seem pretty obvious hints.

Wherever it comes from, though, Alexisonfire's aim is true on Crisis.

Track Listing:

1. Drunks, Lovers, Sinners and Saints
2. This Could Be Anywhere in the World
3. Mailbox Arson
4. Boiled Frogs
5. We Are the Sound
6. You Burn First
7. We Are the End
8. Crisis
9. Keep It on Wax
10. To a Friend
11. Rough Hands