Iron Age
Constant Struggle
Youngblood (2006)
Despite what everyone else is saying, I can't call Iron Age a hardcore band. I know they're on a hardcore label and have members that were in fairly big hardcore bands. But they're just not hardcore music. Their music is way to metal to be lumped in with hardcore. From the opening track, "We're Dust / The Violator" it's obvious that Constant Struggle is dominated by killer riffs. The duo of Steve Norman on rhythm guitar and Wade Allison on lead guitar make this record. Their riffs are crisp and drive each song from start to finish with great intensity. I'm especially a fan of the sound of the guitars - it's very Metallica Kill 'Em All. You can't disagree! Listen to "Evil Ways" and try; you will fail! Let's not forget the killer solos, like the one on "Butcher's Bill." It's like being sent in a time warp to the mid-80's. For the most part the bass playing of Matt Jackson isn't that prevalent as it's usually following the beat set forth by Reed Thomas' drumming. However it does shine in a few spots, the opening sequence of "Brainwreck," for example. Thomas' drumming is solid throughout and he helps … Read more
Dragonforce
Inhuman Rampage
Sanctuary (2006)
Usually, when a band tries to surpass their previous musical efforts, especially when the stage is set to such a … Read more
Various Artists
We Reach: The Music of The Melvins
Fractured Transmitter (2005)
A tribute to The Melvins, in theory, is a great idea. Hell, all tribute records in theory are great ideas. … Read more
The Slackers
Peculiar
Hellcat (2006)
Yes, this could be considered a ska record, and yes, ska really is not as popular as it was a … Read more
The Living End
State of Emergency
EMI (2006)
Maturity is a much-maligned thing within the pop world. Let's face it, there's nothing that the mass-media consuming pop-culture junkie … Read more
