Obsession

Released in 2004, Obsession marks the commercial and creative zenith of Eighteen Visions' transition from chaotic metalcore pioneers to alternative metal heavyweights. Following the groundwork laid by 'Vanity', this album fully embraces a 'hard rock' sensibility, characterized by James Hart's increased use of melodic crooning alongside his signature rasps. Produced by Mudrock, the record features a significantly more polished sound than their earlier Trustkill releases, emphasizing thick guitar tones and radio-friendly structures. It is often cited as a cornerstone of the 'fashioncore' subgenre, influencing the aesthetic and sonic direction of the mid-2000s Orange County scene. The album's success was bolstered by its inclusion in high-profile media, notably the track 'I Let Go' appearing in the Burnout 3: Takedown soundtrack, which introduced the band's melodic-heavy hybrid to a global audience. It remains a pivotal document of the era when metalcore began its flirtation with mainstream rock aesthetics.