I don't know what it is but Europeans love vegan and straightedge hardcore a lot more than us Americans do, or at least they come across as more passionate about them than the average hardcore fan here. I can't explain it nor will I attempt to do so. I just know there is a greater concentration of those types of bands coming from Europe. Germany's Ritual is a prime example and this new MCD, Wolves, is pretty darn good proof that they do it better.
Wolves compiles the bands latest 7" of the same name as well as their debut 7" - One Foot in the Grave - and a fitting cover song. The first four songs come from the Wolves 7". Musically the band is treading in a territory that mixes the metallic hardcore of Unbroken with the rock-infused hardcore of American Nightmare and The Hope Conspiracy. These songs are really well written and the lyrics only add to their intensity. There are a lot fantastic riffs and some really good sing-along parts; the breakdowns are here too, but not over the top.
The three songs from their first 7" release follow. The recording is a bit rough but still decent. Musically the songs are along the same lines, hinting at other influences like Morning Again and early metallic hardcore. However the songs are a little less focused in the songwriting and the lyrics come across as a bit more juvenile.
Ritual has also tagged on a cover of Chokehold's "Anchor." It gives you a nice idea where the band draws influence from, even if its not as outward and obvious as Chokehold's lyrics were - is there anyone more outspoken?
Overall, Wolves is a solid release, especially for the newest songs. Ritual is a band that most of us in the U.S. have never heard, which is a shame. Hopefully this record gets them some attention, as they are a band that deserves more recognition.
