With Passion - In the Midst of Bloodied Soil
Record Label: Reflections of Ruin Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
With Passion might be associated with the metalcore scene but their actual music is something you'd find in some of the European goth or death metal scene. This is only a 6-track EP but it showcases much of what the band has to offer. With two guitars and a keyboard, With Passion takes the jaded metalcore sound and fuses it with keyboards. The keyword is "fusion", not just interludes. With above-average (not first class) instruments and typical vocals (screams, growls), this EP should be an enjoyment for anyone.
Days and Nights in the Skeleton Crew - Working Class Stiffs
Record Label: Woodenman Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Simple synth-oriented rock describes this album. Days and Nights include both male and female vocals in various forms: singing, screaming, talking. The song structures and melodies are a little bit weird chaotic at times but not crazy enough to distract you. The final product is actually a refreshing sound that combines many genres like hardcore, rock, new-age, and more.
Dynamite Boy - Dynamite Boy
Record Label: Fearless Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Decent pop-punk in the same vein as MxPx. The tunes are catchy and the vocals are almost perfect for the genre. There are a couple of tracks featuring a female vocalists, good addition to the mix. Furthermore, Dynamite Boy is raw enough to not give off that commerical stench. Triteness aside, it's an enjoyable record.
Face Tomorrow - The Closer You Get
Record Label: Reflections Music
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Typical indie-rock band with some good vocals. Face Tomorrow is from the Netherlands. They have a style that fans of Thursday should enjoy. On some of the tracks, I even feel a bit of A Perfect Circle. The vocalist has one of the most commanding voices in the business.
Despistado - The Emergency Response
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
Wow... How did this crap get released? Some of the worst, off-tune singing I've heard.
Brazil - A Hostage and the Meaning of Life
Record Label: Fearless
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Finally, a progressive band (in the emo-pop scene) that actually does real fusion. Brazil has keyboard work in almost every single song and they're blended very nicely into the rest of the music. Cello, sax, and other strings are beautifically integrated as well. The music has that Mars Volta feel to it, especially the vocals (but perhaps less commanding). Unfortunately, the lyrics are fairly boring and cliche. The album might have been much more enjoyable if it had just cut down on the amount of lyrics and made many parts purely instrumental. Overall, the band shows extreme promise. They would sound great with some more innovative song structures.
Brandtson - Send Us A Signal
Record Label: Militia Group
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
In my book, the best Brandtson record was the "Trying to Figure Each Other Out" EP. "Fallen Star Collection" follows that, and everything else sorta just bunches together. This album (the first full-length not on Deep Elm since Letterbox) falls into that "bunches" category. Its style is similiar to "Dial In Sounds" and "Death & Taxes". Catchy, melodic, gentle, and soothing come to mind when describing it. Track #7 and #8 are probably my favorite. #8 (Blindspot) has that "Trying to Figure Each Other Out"-style attached to it. Overall, the album has many bright spots but it doesn't shine as a classic Brandtson. Anyone remotely interested in the band should enjoy it but for the newbies, there are better places to start.
Jawbreaker - Dear You
Record Label: Blackball Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
Some what pointless to review a re-release. Obviously the album is a classic. Originally released in 1995, Dear You has much of what today's MTV emo/pop/punk bands are re-hashing. With five extra tracks, the album is a definite must-have from this legendary band.
In-Quest - Epileptic
Record Label: Good Life Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
In-Quest features Sven Aborted on vocals and I think that's all you need to know about the band. The band makes pretty good death metal. The vocals are the high point. There are a couple of good guitar interludes but for the most part, it's just generic stuff.
Look What I Did - My First Time
Record Label: Clockrock Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
It doesn't get much worse than this. There are a couple of catchy parts but for the most part, the album is just a glob of annoying vocals, senseless choruses, and mediocre instruments.
Roy - Big City Sin and Small Town Redemption
Record Label: Fueled by Ramen
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Roy features an allstar cast, at least in the hardcore scene. Featuring former Botch members, Dave Verellen and Brian Cook (also of These Arms Are Snakes) as well as Harkonen frontman Ben Verellen and bassist Mike Cooper, one (I myself included) will probably be very surprised the first time they hear Roy. What flows out the stereo is not some post-modern metalcore but rather easy-listening indie pop. Combined with clever lyrics, Roy creates clean and simple pop. Most of the songs are mellow without much complex structure. The end result is a relaxing and refreshing experience anyone who appreciates music can enjoy.
Orange Island - Orange Island
Record Label: Triple Crown
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Yet another one of these emo/pop bands with the cliche riffs and lyrics. The lack of a definite personality makes this album an absolute bore.
Under a Dying Sun - Supernova
Record Label: Substandard
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
This "music" makes me ill. I think I've heard better vocals in the first round of American Idol.
Truxton - Truxton
Record Label: Substandard
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Smooth folk rock permeates the air as you play this quite beautiful album. The instruments are accompanied by light yet deliberate vocals. Everything about it just makes you happy.
Foe - Arm Yourself with Clairvoyance
Record Label: House of Stairs
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
When a band decides to become all instrumental, they better have some damn good instrument players. Some sort of guitar virtuoso or something. Foe, on the other hand, decided to be completely instrumental on the basis of sloppy musicianship and terrible tunes. A garage-band practice can probably sound better.
Strike Anywhere - Exit English
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
It's been a while since "Change is a Sound" but finally Strike Anywhere has come up with this brand new LP. Strike Anywhere reminds most of the good 'ol days of hardcore with their politically-charged lyrics and energetic pace. The band does have some minor elements of modern-day punk/pop but it's hardcore at heart. Should be a joy to any fans of the genre.
These Arms are Snakes - This Is Meant to Hurt You
Record Label: Jade Tree Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Featuring members of Botch, Kill Sadie and more, These Arms are Snakes have the dreadful task of living up to their lofty expectations. This five-song EP delivers on most of those expectations. It has a blend of Kill Sadie, Milemarker, and Drive Like Jehu. However, it does seem to miss the epic mood that drove much of Botch. Ultimately, These Arms are Snakes is still working with the same formula and doesn't try to push the boundaries.
Number One Gun - Celebrate Mistakes
Record Label: Floodgate Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Yet another one of these generic punk-rock bands with pop tunes and o-so-lame lyrics. Get ready for a borefest.
Darkest Hour - Hidden Hands of a Sadist Nation
Record Label: Victory
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
For many people, Darkest Hour's "The Mark of the Judas" is a classic and can never be touched. This new album by the quintet is making a run for it and on some levels, it has surpassed "Mark of the Judas". Recorded in Sweden, the album is full of Swedish death metal trademarks. The production is top-notch and the tracks are ferocious. Guest appearances include Tomas Lindberg (At the Gates, The Crown), Anders Björler (At the Gates, The Haunted), Peter Wichers (Soilwork), and Marcus Sunesson (The Crown). The 13-minute epic "Veritas, Aequitas" on track 9 pushes the album into lands most wouldn't dare approach.
Gameface - Four To Go
Record Label: Doghouse Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
Pure utter derivative rock crap. Very surprised Doghouse is the label since every rock radio station has about ten bands that sound exactly like this. At a couple of points in the album, their music (especially the vocals) reminded me of Creed, and that is not a good thing. Release date is August 12th; be sure to avoid.
Esperanto - Play This Anywhere
Record Label: Uprising
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Esperanto plays an easy-going and yet energetic pop-punk style. It features two big names in the metal/hardcore scene: Steve Micciche of Every Time I Die and Jesse Muscato of Kid Gorgeous (and also Buried Alive). Not that their metal backgrounds have any influences on this 6-track album but at least you can be sure that the music won't be sloppy. Very generic but the good execution warrants at least a listen.
This Day Forward - In Response
Record Label: Equal Vision Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
First of all, forget everything you knew about This Day Forward. The band has progressed heavily since the Kairos EP. They lost almost all of the screaming vocals and adapted a style that is a mix of hardcore and pop. It's easy to tell where their hardcore roots lie throughout the album, but their new pop-ish melodies make you forget all that and just enjoy the album as is. Mike Shaw's vocals are perfect for this style. It's always in that midway range of screaming and singing, never awkward. The guitars and drums are similar to Kairos, maybe a bit softer. This album showcases the bands' wide range of talents and redefines their position in the genre as one of the leaders and innovators.
Cold - Year of the Spider
Record Label: Geffen Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
So this is the first "nu-metal" album I've actually seriously listened to for quite a long time. The first thing I noticed about this album is the pretentious Chinese/Japanese writing on the packaging. I'm sure Cold truly appreciates the culture and not just put them to be "cool". Aside from that, this is a great album. It doesn't have that whiny Staind-like vocals. The melodies and song structures are tight. The feel of the album is more pop-rock than "metal" even though the lyrics are still very much in touch with their metal roots.
The Escape Engine - Celebrity Role Model
Record Label: Fidelity Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This is the New Jersey band's debut full-length. They play the ever-so-popular pop-emo-rock-core, sort of similar to Finch, Taking Back Sunday, or Thursday. Perhaps their greatest selling point is their intensity. With the exeception of a few tracks, the album carries some very passionate singings or screams. Alas, the praises stop there. The guitars and drums are mediocre. The riffs and melodies are average. The band does absolutely nothing to separate itself from the pack and gets boring rather fast.
The Threads - Five Stabs to the Throat
Record Label: Phantoms Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
The SoCal 6-piece band calls themselves "chaotic post-punk". I don't know about the chaotic part but post-punk is certainly correct. The multi-layered guitar work, the subtle yet effective keyboards, and the melodies make this a wonderful 5-song EP.
The Suicide Machines - A Match and Some Gasoline
Record Label: Side One Dummy
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
So this is the return of The Suicide Machines. Back is the punk band with their energetic politically-fueled tracks. Loyal fans of the band will probably pick this up but this is not for me. The guitar gets repetitive at parts. And face it, this band should've stayed in the past. Their style has been done to death.
Living Things - Turn in Your Friends & Neighbors
Record Label: Self-Released
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
Very generic 3-piece rock band with the world's most annoying vocals. Pass on this.
Velocity Engine - Version 1
Record Label: The Life Recording Company
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
This 5-piece band features some hardcore/metal past including Aaron Dalbec of Bane/Converge. Given that, it was certainly very surprising to hear the melodic pop-punk sound come out of my speakers. Their sound is up-beat and energetic. If you could imagine Bane or any of those-type bands trying to play pop, you'd probably get a pretty good idea of Velocity Engine. The melodies are less commercialized than someone like MxPx or Taking Back Sunday and shine through a different spot. Definitely check out this debut CD.
The Low Budgets - Go for Broke
Record Label: Schuylkill Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
This band has ex-members of the legendary Dead Milkmen and also the Town Managers. Their sound is an easy-going punk-rock party much like Dead Milkmen. Not much else to say about them. It's good.
Madder Mortem - Deadlands
Record Label: The End Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Norwegian Madder Mortem returns with their third full length. This isn't just some regular goth metal band. Madder Mortem features dark, abrasive rhythms with doomy landscapes. To top it all, the female vocals of Agnete Kirkevaag is short of simply amazing. She has a wide range of vocal abilities that perfectly compliment each track. Definitely not to be missed.
The Plot to Blow Up the Eiffel Tower - Dissertation, Honey
Record Label: Happy Couples Never Last
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
The Plot to Blow Up the Eiffel Tower is quite the popular band in the post-punk/progressive genre. They feature 7 members with roles such as saxophone, trumpet, and poetry. Personally, I love these types of bands that try something different. The album features elements of jazz, spazz, and traditional hardcore. It's truly great to see some creativity in this seemingly lost crowd.
That being said, I must say that this is only a step in the right direction, and there's still a ways to go. Even though The Plot features all these instruments, they're not blended very well. The album bascially alternates between traditional hardcore/punk and pure jazz tracks. Seldom do you hear them together working in unison. Admittedly, it is hard to mix them but not trying at all is just a waste.
Fall Out Boy - Fall Out Boy's Evening Out with Your Girl
Record Label: Uprising Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
More Get Up Kids/Alkaline Trio-ish stuff from Uprising. Fall Out Boy features members of Arma Angelus. The 9-track album features some sharp rock riffs and catchy tunes. But the lack of creativity just drives this melodic punk band right into the crowd. I reckon no one will care about them in about a year...
Everafter - Fading into Bright
Record Label: Tribunal Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Very impressive emo/pop band from North Carolina. Everafter features a female lead singer in the age of Get Up Kids, Saves the Day, etc. It's a nice change of pace. Her vocals are close to perfect and the guitar/bass aren't too shabby either. The overall sound reminds me of a rockier version of Rocking Horse Winner. What brings the album down is the pure unimaginative nature of it. The lyrics are jaded, and I swear I've heard some of the riffs elsewhere.
The Underwater - Bleed Me Blue
Record Label: Tribunal Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
First thing you notice about The Underwater's press info sheet is that the word Zao is bold everywhere. I guess they really wanted to ride the Zao wave since the band features Jesse Smith and members of Boywunder. Knowing this, it was a huge surprise when the CD started playing. They are nothing like Zao or Boywunder. This is by no means bad. Underwater plays melodic rock similar to Juliana Theory. The music is heavy for the genre but somewhat un-catchy. The 7 songs leave no impressions behind when they're all done.
Growth of Alliance - Why Fight It?
Record Label: Independent
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Wasn't expecting much from this 6-song independently-released EP but it sure surpised me with its quality of production and songs. The 4-piece from Port Costa, CA plus a somewhat rockier version of Incubus. They have catchy melodic vocals plus a complimentary rhythm section. With the addition of an keyboardist/percussionist, the band stands apart from the rest of scene.
5ive - The Hemophiliac Dream
Record Label: Tortuga Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This is a 2-song EP that is over 36 minutes long. To put it succinctly, 5ive is electronic, ambient, space, abstract instrumentals. Production is clean and the melodies are quite good. But the entire 36-minutes never really feels like it gets going. There are a couple of moments where you can really get into the mood of the music but the rest is somewhat just filler.
Paradise Lost - Symbol of Life
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 2
Paradise Lost has been pumping out albums for a while now. For the most part, I can say they're fairly enjoyable. This new one is a mix of goth and electronics that's been around since "Draconian Times" I suppose. The new album doesn't really return to their gothic roots as people have been saying. It's more of the same recent stuff. They're going on tour in the US with Opeth soon. That'll be interesting...
Lastyear - Pictures, Letters & Memories EP
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 2
Some generic punk/emo/pop band that's trying to join the party about a couple of years too late. The five songs are energetic and semi-catchy, but in the end, I don't really care.
Star of Ash - Iter.viator
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Star of Ash features Heidi (Ihriel) of Peccatum, members of Emperor (Ihsahn), and Trickster G. from Ulver. They present a plethora of music genres from orchestral strings to beating electronics. The mood of each song varies from the dark hopelessness of the midnight sky to the bright and shininess of the sun. Complementing all of this is Heidi's beautiful yet haunting vocals that are not too loud to override the instrumentals. It is definitely a gem to check out on Jester/The End Records.
Cass McCombs - Not the Way EP
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 3
Monitor Records has always brought nice melodies to the table with Bellini or Oxes. This EP from Cass McCombs is certainly no change. The one-man crew of Cass McCombs brings some nice folk songs reminiscent of Neil Young or Bob Dylan. In the age of crappy nu-metal and metal, this is a nice change of pace. Release date is 1/14 so grab it if you're interested.
Open Hand - The Dream
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This full-length out on Trustkill from Open Hand is basically two previous EPs fused together with one new song added in. Open Hand is another one of the melodic post-hardcore bands. Sort of in the same vein as Thursday. The little sheet from Trustkill said Open Hand is known for their "honest lyrical approach". If by "honest" they meant "cliche" then I totally agree! Musically, the band doesn't feature much variety. The songs are all convoluted with the same riffs and whatnot with the occasional melodic ballad. Each song consists of two stages. First, there are some semi-hard screams or whatever and then comes the high-pitched, womanly (and annoying I might add) singing. The band has potential if they can clean up their lyrics and produce some original music composition. For now, I'd avoid.
Somehow Hollow - Busted Wings & Rusted Halos
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
To say that this band features ex-Grade members is an understatement. All four members of Somehow Hollow have played in Grade one time or another. Brad Casarin (Guitar/Vocals) and Kent Abbott (Guitar/Vocals) were in Grade the longest. Mike Casarin (Vocals/Bass) and Drew Clark (Drums) joined in towards the end. Somehow Hollow has actually been around for a couple of years, concurrently with Grade. They released a self-titled album back in May 2001.
Now that Grade is gone, the four members have taken time to record a second full length for Victory. They were signed back in September of 2002. Their sound on the record is nothing like Grade, unfortunately. It's more like all the melodic punk that's been going around on these days (less poppy version of New Found Glory, The Stryder, Midtown, etc.) None of the songs are catchy, and the lyrics are full of cliches. The album would have gotten a better review from me if it didn't have that hideous album cover. It's just semi-good-looking girl with "busted wings" and a "broken halo". How original...
Milemarker - Satanic Versus
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
This is only a 6-song EP but it is damn good (and runs over 33 minutes). Milemarker consists of synthesizers, drums, some guitars, and distorted vocals. It has the perfect mix of electronica and the dark ambience. This is out right now on Jade Tree so definitely check it out.
Unsung Zeros - Moments From Mourning
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Saves The Day (specifically the Thru Being Cool era) and New Found Glory comes to mind when listening to Unsung Zeros. They all have the boyish vocals. They all feature catchy pop tunes (though UZ does a poorer job than its siblings). And they all write about similar subjects. But UZ is definitely more rock oriented than the other two and dare I say, more mature. Plus they offer more of a mixture of styles than say New Found Glory, whose songs can be all played simultaneously and sound exactly like one song. Where they lose some points is the lack of good melodies. The first song is by far the best and then everything just goes downhill from there. Still, check this out on Eulogy if you're interested.
Face Tomorrow - For Who You Are
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Face Tomorrow hails from the massively populated and music-talent infested city of.. Rotterdam, the Netherlands? To be honest, I started listening to this with no expectations. In my mind, Europe is good for only death and avant-garde metal. To my surprise, Face Tomorrow delivers a fairly deep record with influences from At The Drive-In and Radiohead. At some parts, I actually thought it was Thom Yorke who was singing. But what they fail to mimic from those bands are the experimental traits, this record is very much a mass-market product. This is out on Reflection Records (in Netherlands).
Project Rocket | Fall Out Boy - Split EP
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
To put it bluntly, Project Rocket equals Get Up Kids and Fall Out Boy equals New Found Glory. These two bands each contribute 3 songs to this EP outon Uprising Records. It's hard to find anything bad about them, but the truth is, they don't offer much in the way of innovation. Both of them also have full-lengths coming out soon.
Papa Roach - Lovehatetragedy
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 3/5
I remember when Papa Roach used to be good... Oh wait, no I don't. They've always been this crappy. This album makes Papa Roach sound exactly like Nickelback and that crappy Sinch band I just reviewed. The universal self-loathing theme is getting pretty damn old, and the lyrics are so generic a pet monkey could churn them out.
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Pigmy Love Circus - The Power of Beef
Record Label: Go Kart Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Pigmy Love Circus features Tool's drummer and an ex-Black Flag among others. All these big names might have you excited and expect something great. But as you can probably tell from their name and album title, this is basically a joke band. They play straight rock with lyrics that make no sense. Some call it "biker rock" and it can be fun for about a minute.
Heaven Shall Burn - Antigone
Record Label: Abacus Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Heaven Shall Burn brings good clean Swedish-style metal similar to At the Gates without any of the bullshit many other band carry these days. The sound is sharp and to-the-point. Drums are fast and crisp. Guitars are melodic without being poppy. Best of all, the vocals are just all-out growls/screams without any whining or singing. It's just pure metal enjoyment.
Beyond the Embrace - Insect Song
Record Label: Metal Blade
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Fans of At the Gates or maybe In Flames would probably enjoy Beyond the Embrace. Compared to In Flames, they're less melodic. Compared to At the Gates, they're less death. However, with the above-average vocals (singing/growling/screaming), Beyond the Embrace is sure to please any metal fan, for a short while at least.
The Heavils - Heavilution
Record Label: Metal Blade
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
You would expect better things produced by Devin Townsend, but the Heavils is about the worst crap of metal I've heard. With the most cliche lyrics and annoying vocals, they are as low as you can go.
Hawthorne Heights - The Silence in Black and White
Record Label: Victory Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
This album actually broke the best debut week selling records at Victory when it came out. While it doesn't break any new grounds in the melodic-punk/pop-punk genre, it is done really well. The ratio of screaming to singing is just about right, and the melodic singings are natural, too. My favorite track, "Niki FM", is the perfect example. While the album is not catchy as a whole, there are several memorable parts. If you're into Taking Back Sunday and the like, this will be right up your alley.
Sleep Station - After the War
Record Label: Eyeball
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
After the War is a concept album that tells the tale of WWII through its narrative-style tracks. The songs are mostly alt-country with some of the better vocals I've heard. Although nothing extraordinary sticks out as you listen to the album, it does flow by smoothly. Unfortunately, as I listened to the album, I kept thinking of Neutral Milk Hotel, which just happens to be better in every respect than Sleep Station. My favorite track on the album "Caroline, London 1940" begins eerily similar to Neutral's "Holland, 1945".
Onelinedrawing - The Volunteers
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
I've been a huge Far and Onelinedrawing fan for over 7 years now. Needless to say, anything Jonah does I'm interested. When I first listened to this, I didn't know how to feel. It wasn't "Visitor" nor was it "Water & Solutions." The song "Superhero" was suspiciously similar to "Pollyanna." Frankly, I thought the songs were just too plain. After many more listens, I still hold this view on tracks such as "Livin' Small." But there are plenty of good tracks on here, "We Had a Deal" is classic Far. His voice is raw and sincere throughout the album. If you are a Jonah fan, I'm sure you'll like this. And if you're not, Jonah will make you forget all these crappy manufactured bands on the radio.
Decahedron - Disconnection Imminent
Record Label: Lovitt Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
An all-star affair, Decahedron features Shelby and Jason from Frodus and Joe from Fugazi. Not surprisingly, Decahedron sounds like Frodus II. The tunes and structures are similar to Frodus' "And We Washed Our Weapons in the Sea." However, they lack the emotion and the atmosphere Frodus delivers. Enjoyable album but nothing memorable.
Challenger - Give The People What They Want In Lethal Doses
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Challenger features two members of Milemarker, a band I enjoy very much. Because of this, I was expecting a progression of Satanic Versus. Instead, Challenger presents a post-punk sound similar to Husker Du and Sonic Youth. The songs are solid with good vocals and clean instruments. Additionally, the album isn't too over-produced so it still gives off that indie feel. But at the end of the day, there is nothing revolutionary or evolutionary about this album. Enjoyable but probably won't stand the test of time.
Statistics - Leave Your Name
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Soothing indie rock meets imaginative/experimental electronic elements. The songs are poppy but carry that mature mood. The albums flows from one song to the next, the entire CD breezes by if you don't pay enough attention. Although the 30-minute total time is a bit dissappointing. The melodies are the strong-point of the album, each one meticuously executed. Definitely worthy of attention.
Denali - Instinct
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Not very many people have heard of Denali. I found their self-titled debut quite by accident when it came out, and I listened to it non-stop for a couple of weeks. After that however, I quickly got bored. Even though Maura's voice was amazing, the album just didn't have enough to last me. This time around, Denali has gotten a little more exciting. The songs seem to have that extra kick to them, at the expensive of perhaps being too commerical friendly. Maura's voice's remains as mesmorizing as ever, especially on Nullaby. The tunes are catchy but nothing very innovative. Overall, an excellent pop/rock record, especially if you like soothing and emotional female vocals.
Alli With An I - I Learned It by Watching You
Record Label: Law of Inertia
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Alli With An I has actually been around for a while and this makes their second full-length. To those who are unfamiliar, Alli With An I is your basic pop-punk band with hints of early Get Up Kids. The music is simple, happy, raw, and energetic. The guitar riffs and lyrics might be cliche but the vocals are enjoyable. A quality release for the already over-crowded scene.
The Spotlight Syndicate - Forget the Static Past
Record Label: Substandard
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This is what you get when you mix cheap keyboards with off-tune yelling.
DESA - Year in a Red Room
Record Label: Substandard
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
More generic pop-punk with cliche lyrics. While technically sound, you might as well stick with your current favorite pop-punk band because they all sound the same.
Kid Dynamite - Cheap Shots, Youth Anthems
Record Label: Jade Tree
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
This is a must-have for fans of Kid Dynamite and the like. It has two discs: one has 29 tracks and the other is a DVD. The 29 tracks include classics, covers, demos, sung by Jay, and live radio tracks. To put it simply, it is amazing. The songs perfectly capture the attitude and energy of one of the greatest bands ever.
Glasseater - Everything's Beautiful When You Don't Look Down
Record Label: Victory
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
For previous fans of Glasseater (especially the older material), this new release will definitely be a turnoff. Glasseater has turned into a full MTV/radio friendly pop-punk band. Each song is catchy and commercialized. Fans of NFG or Saves the Day will probably dig this.
Supagroup - Self-Titled
Record Label: Foodchain Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
The epitome of crappy rock 'n roll that should never have been recorded with a pretentious name to boot.
Criteria - En Garde
Record Label: Initial
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
A new project from the ever-elusive ex-guitarist of Cursive. Stephen Pederson now brings Criteria. What comes out is a great rock album (power-pop). The band features members of several Saddle Creek bands but Pederson is the focal point. His vocals is not as commanding as some of the well-known vocals out there, but his guitar melodies rival the best of them. A definite gem on Initial Records.
Ultimate Fakebook - Before We Spark
Record Label: Initial Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
This EP features 6 new songs and a remix track. Ultimate Fakebook are one of the top-names in the power pop scene and this EP proves why. Each track is feel-good pop laced with clever lyrics. The remix by the Get Up Kids producer of "Inside Me, Inside You" ain't too shabby either.
Nehemiah - The Process of Asphyxiation
Record Label: Uprising
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Nehemiah does their best imitation of At the Gates the state of Florida has ever seen and pulls it off relatively well. The guitar riffs are your typical Swedish death metal style. They're sharp, constant, and fast. The melodies throughout the album are quite on par with the modern-day Swedish bands, too. What sets the band apart from the rest are the dual vocals. First, there is the At the Gates style screeching vocals. Second, there is the Morbid Angel style deep growls. The latter sounds forced sometimes and can be a turnoff for what is otherwise a nice album.
Spitalfield - Remember Right Now
Record Label: Victory Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
The Victory Records of the 21st century seems to be splitting into two directions. First, they have the traditional Victory hardcore stuff with Hoods, A18, etc. Then, they have this new-wave of pop-rock bands such as Taking Back Sunday or The Reunion Show. Spitalfield falls directly into the latter class. With a style similar to Jimmy Eat World and Sensefield, Spitalfield mixes easy-going rock melodies with fairly good vocals. However, the album misses the target in terms of relating to the audience. I never got a sense of the emotions behind the music and often got lost in the music.
Marilyn Manson - The Golden Age of Grotesque
Record Label: Nothing
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Ahh, the lovable Manson. He's back and finally here to bring us that "ground-breaking" album we've been waiting for? Not quite. This is pretty much a re-hash of Holy Wood and Mechanical Animals. Each song has the exact same beat to it, and combined with very weak lyrics, this is definitely not one of Manson's greats. Hardcore Manson fan will still like this; it's still got some great moments. But for the casual listener, there are better Manson albums.
Slick Shoes - Far From Nowhere
Record Label: Side One Dummy
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
The last Slick Shoes self-titled album was pretty dissappointing for me so I was definitely looking forward to this. Overall, this album retains the same Slick Shoes melodic punk formula. The pop stuff has been toned down a bit and the punk side has stepped it up. After listening to it nonstop for a weekend, I decided that this is still not the Slick Shoes I want. It just sounds too commercialized and misses out on the raw elements of the genre. That being said, I must admit that my standards for Slick Shoes are much higher than for others. This is still a great band and fans of MxPx and the like will certainly like them. There are several memorable catchy melodies that make me remember why I like them so much.
The Mars Volta - De-Loused in the Comatorium
Record Label: Universal Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
Without a question one of the top 5 releases this year. Get it and be glad.
Saosin - Translating the Name (Death Do Us Part)
Record Label: Fiddler Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
No one can listen to this album without drawing comparisons to Coheed & Cambria. On the track "Lost Symphonies", the vocals are down-right chilling. The pure emotion and explosive melodies of this EP make it an instant classic.
Anatomy of a Ghost - Evanesce
Record Label: Fearless Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Yet another one of these "emocore" bands. The band features all the regular stuff with some fairly nice guitar work and high-pitched vocals that reminds me of Fairweather sometimes.
Helicopter Helicopter - Wild Dogs with X-Ray Eyes
Record Label: Initial Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
Hailing from Boston, Massachusetts, Helicopter Helicopter brings hi-powered pop hooks combined with dual male-female vocals. The songs are deeply layered with dual guitars and keyboards. They heavily remind me of a rockier version of The Anniversary (especially the "Designing a Nervous Breakdown" album). In this crowded genre, this album is definitely a gem.
Tent - Transform
Record Label: Akhenation Music
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This is a solo project by Chuck Treece, ex-McRad, The Roots, Urge Overkill and Underdog. The songs are all simple, varying from rock to folk to noise-ish. Not too bad.
The Theory of Abstract Light - Self-Titled
Record Label: Odd Halo Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
This is a side project of 5ive's guitarist Ben Carr. Not surprisingly, it's along the same lines of spatial, abstract music if you want to call it that. The entire 7 tracks consists of simple yet mind-bending sounds produced either by guitar or electronically. The tone and imagery created by the music falls and rises throughout the album. Tense moments are followed by cool releases and vice versa. Definitely a journey not to be missed.
Cementhead - February Girls
Record Label: Independent
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This is probably one of the worst named bands in history. When I hear Cementhead, I think shitty nu-metal or wanna-be-metal rock. I definitely did not expect this poppy melodic punk rock. This is third third CD featuring 7 tracks. Each one is a cool pop song like the Spring outside my window. However unoriginal they might be, I don't mind it.
Various Artists - Atticus ... Dragging the Lake II
Record Label: Side One Dummy
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Hard to rate compilations but this one looks very good on paper. Features unreleased tracks from Slick Shoes, Alkaline Trio, Hot Rod Circuit, and more. Other bands involved include Further Seems Forever, Dillinger Four, Bane, Jets to Brazil. The total is 26 which is pretty healthy for comps. Probably a good download if you're a fan of some of the bands showcased.
Project Rocket - New Years Revolution
Record Label: Uprising Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Another one of these pop-punk bands in the same vein as Weezer or Get Up Kids. Project Rocket features ex-members/current members of Fall Out Boy, 7 Angels 7 Plagues, Knockout, and Spitalfield. It's not surprising that they bring some of the best practiced instrumentals. Then I guess it's also not surprising that they don't bring anything revolutionary to the genre.
Rock Kills Kid - Rock Kills Kid
Record Label: Fearless Records
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
This is the debut, self-titled EP from the California quartet. The band plays a powerpop sound with lots of melodies, backup vocals, etc. The six songs showcase their clean-cut production and soothing vocals. Unfortunately, it also showcases their blend style and jaded lyrics.
Dreams Forever Drowning - Entire Parts Never to be Left Incomplete
Record Label: Too Bad You're Beautiful Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
I'm usually a sucker for any female-fronted bands, but Dreams Forever Drowning is an exception. The band mixes genres like hardcore with Annmarie screaming at the top of her lungs and then pop with her singing melodic tunes. This incoherent mix just left me confused and looking for the stop button on the CD player. Plus, Annmarie is just not much of a singer. She has great screaming vocals but singing wise leaves much to be desired.
Garrison - The Model
Record Label: Iodine Recordings
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
The post-hardcore rock veterans are back with a CD-EP. This time, they're on Iodine instead of Revelation. The result is still the same though. The CD composes of 5 energetic and catchy tunes with great vocals. The band has lost some of its attraction just because there are just too many of the same bands out there right now. But still listen to them for a good time.
The Juliana Theory - Love
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 3
I'll be the first one to admit the last Juliana Theory full-length "Emotion is Dead" was just too boyband-ish for my liking. It was such a letdown from "Understand This Is a Dream". So basically I stopped following the band after it. Now this new album will be coming out next month. With it, Juliana Theory has regained my fanship! This time around, the songs are little bit less poppy. Overall, the song structures, lyrics, and whatnot have remained about the same. There are several tracks that are especially catchy. I don't know what they did but I just can't put this disc down. Definitely grab this when it's out.
Beyond the Sixth Seal - Earth and Sphere
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 2
So this band's flyer states that they're the new hope on the "Melodic Death Metal" front. They feature current members of prominent bands such as The Red Chord and American Nightmare. But whatever they tried doing just sounded awkward in comparison to the true death metal found overseas. Their concept of melodic death metal is basically stitching together pieces of regular metal with some melodic guitars and piano solo. The mix comes out very unnatural; I suppose it's not entirely surprising due to these guys' backgrounds and just the fact that they're from America. If you're looking for some real death metal, this is not it. But just in case you're interested (the only reason I was is because of the band affiliations), this is out on Lifeforce Records.
Ulver - Lyckantropen Themes
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
This is an upcoming release from Ulver that is a soundtrack to a movie by the same name. All the ten tracks are improvisations over three chords produced on mobile equipment. The end result is a minimal yet haunting 36-minute electronic journey. For the most part, the music stays sort of behind the scenes. It's not until the last couple of tracks that it really grabs your attention as far as mood goes. This is out on The End Records if you're interested.
Damone - From the Attic
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Call me biased but I have a thing for female lead singers. Damone is certainly no exception. The band features a female vocalist singing some very sharp lyrics written by the guitarist when he was 18. The end result is very refreshing in the age of all-male punk rockers. In addition to the vocals, the music is about as tight as you can get. The guitar semi-solo on track 3 is a rare find in most records today. I'd compare them very highly with The Muffs, one of my favorite bands. This album is out in Feburary on RCA Records. To be on such a big label, they'll no doubt get some airplay.
Koufax - Social Life
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 4
This album was released way back in 2002 and I never reviewed it when it came out. But since it's so damn good (in my top 10 of 2002), I thought I'd give it whirl now. Koufax is full of keyboards, power-pop, and intriguing lyrics. Each songs carries a meaning while the vocal delivery is uninhibited and forceful. Not to mention the music are catchy as hell. This was released on Vagrant so check it out if you can.
Anathallo - Sparrows
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
A pleasant mix of easy-going singing, soft guitars, and soothing horns. The title track is expectionally well done with pianos and such. Feels very Deep Elm-ish. Check it out on Selah Records.
Bellini - Snowing Sun
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
I suppose Bellini is what the kids are calling Math-Rock. It features ex-members of genre-leading Uzeda and Don Caballero and certainly lives up to its expectations. The sound consists of Che's amazing drums and Tilotta's solid guitars. The vocals are the weakest points but the rest more than makes up for it.
The Color Red - Clear
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 1
My dog can probably write better music than this, and I don't even have a dog.
Scarrots - Peace of Sunshine
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 2
Scarrots is another European band (not sure which country). For about the first four or five songs, they reminded me of an early Get Up Kids. The cool indie sound with keyboards and all that crap. The songs were poppy and catchy. Not too bad. Then starting around track six and continuing to the end of the record, the band catches the ska cold of death and turns to crap with their horns and whatnot. Ska sucks and any band that reminds of ska sucks, too. At least the first five tracks were ok.
Under A Dying Sun - Under A Dying Sun
Reviewed By: propheci
Rating: 3
Out on Substandard Records, Under A Dying Sun plays an emotionally-charged, raw, and melodic rock/emo much like Prevent Falls or The Casket Lottery. This self-titled release is their debut full-length, and it features a wide variety of their talents. Songs range from fast-paced assaults to mellow epics. The female backup vocals come in and out for a nice touch. The two guitars work well together, too.
Soulfly - 3
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 2/5
I think someone forgot to tell Max that playing the same riff over and over and yelling the same jaded lyrics over and over has gotten old about 2 years ago. While the production values on this are great, it can't disguise the critical lack of depth on the album. Plus, how lame is it to have a silent tribute track to 9-11? We get it! 9-11 was horrible! Now let's move on!
Loudermilk - The Red Record
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 2/5
Pretty terrible album out on Dreamworks (not surprising I guess, Dreamworks is terrible). The vocals make me want to cement my ears shut forever. The music is semi-decent rock/metal. Either way, avoid this at all costs.
Only One Dead - S/T EP
Reviewed By: a_r_m_d@hotmail.com
Rating: 4/5
Alright, now what we have here is an ep from a sludge band from Canada... If you're familiar with the sludge and/or stoner scene, you'll remember a band called Heavy Bevan... Well, Only One Dead used to be Heavy Bevan, I think they had some member changes... I really enjoy this record, all 4 songs have great, solid, grooving riffs you can bang your head to. My favorite song on the album would have to be "black bevan", it's a killer... email the band thru onlyonedead@hotmail.com and you can go to their website at http://www.mp3.com/onlyonedead (i think that's right, if not, yikes!). Any fan of sludge/stoner music should email these guys for a copy of the ep... it's an excellent listen.
V/A - Punk Goes Pop
Reviewed By: a_r_m_d@hotmail.com
Rating: 4/5
I'm not one for punk music NOR am I one for pop music... But goddamn when you sling them together you get a great, great thing. This CD is just a fun as hell listen... I've been jamming it very a long time, doesn't leave my CD player often... You can sing a long, dance a long, have a whole lot of fun listening to this... The real gems of this CD that are even better than the rest are "I Want it That Way" by Dynamite Boy; "Candy" by Slick Shoes; "Get This Party Started" by Stretch Arm Strong; "Bye, Bye, Bye" by Further Seems Forever; "Crush" by Noise Ratchet; "Survivor" by Knockout; and "The Way You Love Me" by Keepsake. Just excellent.
Pooch - Individual
Reviewed By: a_r_m_d@hotmail.com
Rating: 1/5
Probably the worst cd I have ever heard... If you have any taste in music at all... You will not listen to this... not even as a joke.
Brand New vs. Safety in Numbers - Split
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 3/5
I love Brand New so this split is definitely worth it. The two bands sound almost exactly the same during some of the songs. They're both in the emo-pop genre so if you're into any of that stuff, it's worth checking out. Out on Triple Crown Records.
Down - Down II
Reviewed By: propheci@wickedland.com
Rating: 5/5
I'll keep this short: this album is fucking amazing. If you don't have this already, you should be shot.
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