This 7" compilation partners two Massachusetts bands on one side and two California bands on the other side. Each band contributes one track each; with each band honing in on their own take of hardcore.
The Effort leads off the Massachusetts side with "Steps Ahead." Musically they seem to fall between Modern Life is War and Shai Hulud. It's fast and aggressive metallic hardcore but with a bit of melody mixed into the style. The recently disbanded Last Lights offer up "Oh Modern World." The band's passionate and aggressive delivery is in full force yet again with this song - think American Nightmare but perhaps even more bitter. (The song will be on the band's discography release).
Representing California is Rotting Out from the greater L.A. area. They've got a more punk-based hardcore approach with "Two Worlds," kind of like Lights Out. You can download their demo for free at Myspace. Finally, Until Your Heart Stops wraps it up with "Till the End." It's fast hardcore with a melodic edge to it. There is some chugging going on, but nothing overly moshy.
This is a solid venture with four very awesome bands. Expect to hear more from the three that are still around with new releases/touring on the horizon.
