SMASH MAG

SMASH MAGAZINE
CD REVIEWS

Unwritten Law
Here’s To The Mourning
Lava

In a recent interview with Scott Russo, the front man told me that their new record experimented with a bit more electronic sound and different recording techniques with the guitars that resulted in a “Helmet-like-feel.” Sonically, it fits the bill indeed. “Here’s to the Mourning” is yet another indication of life and evolution from the band that will not die. Russo’s soul searching lyrics and UL’s crunchier approach is anything but the predictable progress and yet a natural next step from the former “Elva” release. As for where the band has been and why the new home? “Apparently drugs, and fist fights with other band members scare your label, and they don’t want to deal with it” says Russo, “most people don’t even get a chance in this. We’ve gotten like three…we’re whore’s to the music industry!” Standout Tracks: Save Me, Celebration Song

Death From Above 1979
You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine
Vice

So one of these dudes is dating Kelly Osbourne eh? What I can only assume was this bands attempt at a unique sound (muddy electric guitar tones) was done brilliantly by Tones on Tail in 1991’s “Night Music.” It’s still pop-rock and danceable for the kids with the belts and haircuts though so don’t discredit it on account of my unusual music snobbery. More rock leaning fans of the Faint, Pinback and more may find this one of great treasure. Standout Tracks: Romantic Rights

Suicide Note
Too Sick To Dance (Forever Fucked)
Ferret
By: Frank Realitos

One of 2002's best albums was You're Not Looking So Good by a young band out of the midwest called Suicide Note. It merged the bludgeoning attack of Black Flag with the melodics of Hum and created a scathing, screaming masterpiece. In a mere 2 years, they've returned with another full-length that broadens their influences and varies the dynamic of their assault. While perhaps not as "immediate" as the last album, repeat listens find this one to offer so much more to those willing to dig. Whether it be the Jehu-like strut of "Let's Get Hit" or the reserved brooding of "Full Price" which borders on the edge of explosion before finally offering some relief, Too Sick To Dance (Forever Fucked) is an album of measured intensity in a scene that badly needs it.

Black Cross
Widows Bloody Widows
Initial
By: Frank Realitos

This band might as well be called The Midwest Hardcore All-Stars. We won't get into the whole family tree, but they feature members of Endpoint, By The Grace of God, Coliseum, Breather Resist, and National Acrobat to name a few of them. That said, you might have a pretty decent idea of what to expect here...buzzsaw guitars, blistering drums, and the classic voice of Rob Pennington at the helm. This is classic, stripped down midwestern hardcore. This record actually collects the Stops A Beating Heart EP with other comp tracks, singles, and unreleased material. A must have for fans, but if you want a better starting point, check out Art Offensive first.

The Used
In Love And Death
Reprise Records
By: Maddy Pines

From kids who knew nothing to the brilliant musicians that make up The Used. Their sophomore album is all about friction. It gives you a exhilarating ride just listening to them play their hearts out. They have put in some incredible range to their music as well. There's "Listening" for example which Bert sings about a communication problem. Then there's the tension filled "Lunacy Fringes" which turns into a poppy tune. This is amazing for all. It gives you everything you need out of an album.

The Silence
Audio Alchemy
Whiskey Records
By: Maddy Pines

Hard core rockers: here is the band of your dreams. They are all about the vocals. With influences like Strung Out and Sunset Fiction it's no wonder why everyone flocks to see them. They just have this energy that pulls you into their world of dreams. But with Steve (singer) leaving I don't think the band will ever be the same. Their lyrics are what give this band their uniqueness. "Dead Ashes Cosentine" tells the story of a dream of love, and the pain of death which comes along. Suggested tracks...End of January, Too Many Questions, 10,000 Poisoned Kisses and Severence.

Wester
Danger Music
By: Maddy Pines

These soft-core emo boys will take you in and keep you in a state of trance. With the influences of The Beautiful Mistake, Name Taken, Riverside Drive and The Silence they seem to blend them all together into a sound which makes you want to get up and dance. The unique voice of Ryan Terrigno and Brian Eikenberry’s amazing guitar work is what drives the band. They give you a sound that you can be addicted to. You can never go wrong with Wester.

Interpol
Antics
Matador Records
By: Mark Hutchings

Interpol’s sophomore follow up is as singularly morbid and hopeful as was their debut album Turn On The Bright Lights. Taking a few stylistic chances with the opening two tracks, which sound more distinctively "American" than the rest of the album, they settle by the third track into the enigmatic, post-punk sound that they have become characteristically known for. If you've never heard Interpol, imagine Joy Division meets the Ocean Blue meets the Cocteau Twins. Complex arrangements built on single and double note guitar lines that can be both harsh and enveloping. Imagine future/primitive ancient mariner star navigators aesthetically embracing the dizziness of Saturday night traffic in a major metropolitan city. Lyrical, atmospheric music for in-transit digital age denizens.

Drag The River
Live At The Starlight
Mars Motors Records
By: Lenny Nero

“Hey, you got your punk in my country.” “No, you got your country in my punk.” And so would go the argument betwixt the folks in Drag The River – a country music supergroup consisting of ALL lead singer Chad Price, and Armchair Martian frontman Jon Snodgrass. Surprisingly, these punk rock vets manage to pull out a stellar live country record – a record that would make Roger Miller or Hank Williams Sr. proud. Slide guitars, heartbreak, and loss upon loss make this a perfect example of what a country records should be – without the watered down pop bullshit that drags the Shania’s and the Toby’s up the charts.

Against Me!
We’re Never Going Home DVD
Fat Wreck Chords
By: Lenny Nero

A gritty, down and dirty, no holds barred look at the touring life of the DIY folk punks Against Me! who, at the time of this filming, were on the road with Planes Mistaken For Stars and No Choice. This DVD is packed with incredible live footage (if you haven’t seen them live, you’re missing out), commentary from the band and sometimes crazy fans. As if this weren’t enough, you’ll also get to hear a few new songs, you can view a photo gallery of the band and so much more. Get this DVD even if you haven’t heard the band yet. You’ll fall in love with them after you watch. And for the die hard fans, this is a great way to tide you over until they return to your town.

The Deep Eynde
Shadowland
Disaster Records
By: Lenny Nero

L.A.’s premiere goth punks finally landed a record deal with Disaster records, and Shadowland is the product of said deal. The band seem to have matured since their self released EP from 3 years ago, but they’ve become more punk than goth…which isn’t a bad thing at all. It’s nice to hear classics like “Suicide Drive” recorded in a real studio with a real producer. Lead singer Fate Fatal’s vocals are reminiscent of Dave Vanian from the Damned, and while the band members have changed frequently over the years (guitarist Daniel The Fly just quit to focus on his other bands), the music is still catchy, fast, and makes you want to sing along. Fans of The Damned should grab this record.

The Donnas
Gold Medal
Atlantic Records
By: Lenny Nero

The band that used to be considered the female Ramones are now all grown up. Awww…how cute. Too bad their music is still boring as all hell. We’ve listened as these 4 ladies progressed over the years from the same 3 chord Ramonesy style punk, into what could be considered a straight forward rock band (in fact, the ladies now go by their real names instead of referring to each other as Donna A. or Donna T. or whatever). Gold Medal, the band’s second release since they signed to a major label, doesn’t have a single catchy track, and after the first few songs, you swear you’ve heard all of these songs before. Do yourself a favor – if you want a real rock record pick up something by the Supersuckers or Turbonegro instead. The Donnas certainly DO NOT deserve a Gold Medal for this mess of an album.