This stuff cracks me up. I think it’s supposed to. Goregrind monster-swallowing-the-mic death with buckshot blast drumming and off-kilter staggering guitar.
Space rock, surf rock, and yippy/jerky trendy new wave-damaged indie rock. I like the instrumental parts. Hipster yapping reminds me of an annoying Chihuahua.
They’re from Buffalo, NY, same as The Goo Goo Dolls, they’re on the Goo’s label, Good Charamel, and Pretty New Things was produced by Dolls bassist Robby Takac.
Midwest metal based on Lamb of God, Unearth, and Darkest Hour. I’ve yet to isolate the traits that make this debut stand apart, but shit, these boys can play!
East Coast punk rock, pure of spirit like Bouncing Souls, but with more consistent songs. A little gruff, but not all gargled glass or hard-living street punk.
The tunes are here, the production is impressive, and the band gets off their asses and plays SXSW and tours, albeit still at the Middle East upstairs level.
A lot lighter than my usual fare, but I know quality songwriting when I hear it. Classy Kansas indie rock featuring members of Ben Folds and My Morning Jacket.
Chicago female-fronted Goth/industrial band on Dark Star. Part sexy cooing, part banshee wailing, part lush synths, part crunching guitars. Never a dull moment.
I’m no expert on thrashy post-punk noise, but there’s lots of (tinny) percussion, horns blatting, and vocal warble/howl on this Austin band’s third outing.