H2O

Nothing to Prove (Bridge Nine)
by Scott Hefflon

They defined the phrase “melodic hardcore” that was bandied about a whole lot in the mid-to-late ’90s, if you believe the bio. Sure, they went poppy at about the same time everyone else did, and they got signed to Epitaph, back when that really meant something (they started on Equal Vision with a 7″, then moved on to Blackout!, who made enough money off them to promise ad money to countless zines and never pay them), and they’ve now landed on Bridge Nine, home to many a proud straight-edge/hardcore band I have no need for, plus New Found Glory and Crime in Stereo, cuz every band needs a home, big or small. I’ve never been a big fan of H2O, but always found them passable. So this non-comeback record is kinda more of the same for me. If you’re already a fan, here’s their latest. If you’re a fan of mid-’90s melodic punk and looking for some solid bands to check out, buy me a few drinks and I’ll rattle off band names faster than you can scribble.
(www.bridge9.com)