Authors: Dylan Chadwick
Review: Terror – Live by the Code
Besides the unfortunate misstep of “You’re Caught” (ugh) Terror’s flown the flag of dependability in hardcore’s ho-hum parade (cynics may call it “predicatable”), and though the band has endured lineup and style changes a-plenty in this new Keepers of the Faith era, the band continues to keep it fresh, exciting and, to many, life-affirming. … read more
Review: Take Offense – United States of Mind
When Take Offense first started making waves beyond their native Chula Vista, the predominant buzz surrounding the band was a seamless integration of heavy metallic hardcore with a funky Venice thrash kick. On their second full-length, they continue in the same vein with some more of the metallic embellishments that have kept them a head above many of their contemporaries. … read more
Review: Skid Row – United World Rebellion: Chapter One
Simpleton historians cling to the idea that “hair metal” met its final death-blow the second “Teen Spirit” debuted on MTV, but they’d really only be half right. … read more
Review: Strike to Survive – Yesterday’s News
Drums and guitar high in the mix with jagged vocals buried a little beneath makes for a compelling listen, sort of similar to Drive Like Jehu or maybe even the first Bronx album (check the Refused-via-Stooges riffing on the title track). … read more
Review: Rawhide – Murder One
This is raucous death-flected RnR monster, which clutches at its NWOBHM and D-Beat influences with equal aplomb. The band’s a semi-mystery, with precious little information available online. … read more
Review: Ringworm – Hammer of the Witch
At this point, Ringworm’s greatest testament is their longevity, having been steadily grinding away since ‘98, crafting a stream of excellent records while most of their contemps have opted for the quick cash of a reunion spot. … read more
Review: Power Trip – Manifest Decimation
Lord have mercy, that Paolo Girardi artwork! That’s it, I could stop the review here. … read more
Review: Poison Idea – Kings of Punk [Reissue]
Southern Lord’s love affair with reissuing old PI records hasn’t let up, and (for once) this reviewer isn’t complaining. Few hardcore bands deserve more praise than Poison Idea, and these loving reissues are a testament to that. … read more
Review: Panikk – Unbearable Conditions
Aping a classic Yankee sound with precision, finesse and a smattering of rough-hewn technicality, Slovenian (!) rippers Panikk pay bleary-eyed tribute to the golden age of Reagan-era noggin shakers, ante-upping “party thrash” contemporaries with fretboard frenetics. … read more
Review: Pelvis Wrestlies – Make Up Face
Reno’s Pelvis Wrestlies take their sound from a casserole of punk, pop and garage, their logo from the 80s WWF and their name from the bastardized moniker of an American icon—a winning recipe! … read more