The Brokedowns- Species Bender

It was about a couple weeks ago when I headed up into the city for Riot Fest, mainly to witness Propagandhi and the Circle Jerks with my own two eyes. I had a lot planned for that weekend so by the time these two shows finally came around, I was prepared and just stoked to see both these bands and a couple others to have myself a grand ole time. Once the weekend was over, there were only two bands on my mind and one of them happens to be The Brokedowns, not only due to the fact of this review but seeing them live was honestly a blast; these guys definitely know how to crack some good jokes all while giving the audience what they want.

The Brokedowns, from Elgin, IL, have been cranking out some catchy, memorable tunes for about a couple years now, never losing steam on every album. Now with their third album as their debut on Red Scare Records, The Brokedowns have exemplified they're the next big band to not only keep an eye out for but possibly the next big thing in punk for the decade to come. Hell, it took me one complete listening to the whole album to get my attention.

The album starts off with "Wizard Symptoms", a track that's only less than two minutes and yet grabs you right in, with their crunchy, riveting guitar chords that seem to mirror Dillinger Four, but with more attitude provided, brought to you with lyrics reflecting magic and of course wizards. Odd? yes but damn it, do they make it sound so damn good. "I am a Ritual" follows next, displaying some ferocious chanting throughout, incorporated with a downright funky bass line and straight to the face attack from the rest of the band.

One of my handful of favorites off this album is "Noble Rot", due to the sample provided in the beginning of the track but mainly for the lyrics that are so fun to sing out loud, or if you're in my case, in the privacy of your own home/car/etc. The track showcases a great performance of the band, in regards to rhythm, from the drum beats that sounds almost tribal but still emphasizing a punk feel. Another favorite of mine is "This Cult is a bummer", in my opinion one of the stronger tracks off Species Bender. From the intro to the end of the song, The Brokedowns seem to have no difficulty getting attention from the listener, as the group includes a more melodic side to the album, provided by some strong background vocals and an interesting set of lyrics that set focus on past trends and just how dull they can be. Probably not a in-depth meaning about the song from yours truly but it still brings out The Brokedowns at their finest.

"Skvll Skewl" is another strong track in regards to rhythm that just meshes in nicely with the rest of the album. It has all the necessities for a Brokedowns song; catchy lyrics, furious but easy to sing-a-long too chants, crunchy-cut up guitar chords, and a simplistic bass riff that leave you on your heels and in the mood for starting some action. This track is what really sealed the deal for this band, since it has all the appeal that make for a great, stand out punk song that people will recount in latter years. That may take some time but for now, it sounds fresh and that's what counts.

In regards to the night I saw these guys live, I was pretty blown away at how they performed. The Brokedowns were funny, straight to the point, and played a good set that managed to impress the whole crowd attendance that night who would have otherwise dismissed the band for the headliner, Propagandhi to be more specific. Not only that, but the band even had a guy dress up as a wizard, informing the audience what song was going to be played with the band providing some hilarious one liners that never missed the audience what so ever. Quite impressive, if you asked me or anyone else who witnessed that show at Riot Fest.

If these guys ever manage to make across your town, I advise to make it out to said show and see it for yourself if still doubting my review. Same goes if not convinced on this album, but let's face it, when am I ever wrong in regards to good music?

The Brokedowns

Red Scare Industries

Oct. 14 The House Cafe- The Black Dahlia Murder/Goatwhore

I'll admit, I've lost my touch with the metal scene for the past two years now. Not anything personal to say that I dislike Metal, but I haven't able to get my taste-buds into any of the new bands coming out of the woodwork, at least that wouldn't conflict with my usual habit of metal bands, Motorhead, Deicide, and Kylesa. However, if there was one band that still grabbed my attention, it's Black Dahlia and last night is one pure example.

I remember just last year when a couple buddies of mine paid a visit up to The House Cafe in Dekalb, being fucking mind blown by Dahlia that night, recounting their tales of debauchery (i.e getting stoned with the members of Skeletonwitch) all the while head banging to the riffage of Dahlia. Due to being held up at work, I was bummed I missed out on a good ass show, and as time progressed to the now, I decided to have a first hand witness to their set, along with Goatwhore. A friend that went to said show last year and numerous others before chose to venture out as well, so that was that. The ride up there wasn't bad so to speak, despite our car breaking down on us but none the less, we managed to find a way to step a foot at the house cafe. To be in that situation, it was sheer luck.

Aside from our fouls, we managed to catch the first opening band by the name of Sleep Serapis Sleep. I wouldn't say they were the best band that evening but they weren't the worst. Not as much of a stage presence and their music wasn't mediocre or anything but it didn't really see anything about having potential, probably due to their short set. Some kids were feeling it while a huge majority of the crowd during their set continued to have their conversations or just stood there waiting for Dahlia. We passed their merch table prior to seeing their set and were somewhat impressed with their stuff. Once their set was over, we had ourselves a cigarette when one of the members of Sleep Serapis Sleep tried to obtain a sale from yours truly, but utterly failed. Not even worth mentioning if you think about it.

The next band up was Arkaik, a recently signed band from California. I was into their set for a good portion of it, overall. Kids were getting a little more into the show, starting a pit and pumping their fists in the air so that was good. Arkaik didn't miss a beat and still kept on trekking into their set. Quite impressive for a band on the rise, so I wish them luck on the rest of the tour with Dahlia and Goatwhore. Who knows, maybe they might grab the world by storm one of these days.

To write up how this next band played is pretty impossible, due to the fact it was one of the better sets I've seen at a metal show, period. Goatwhore were phenomenal, a must see band for those who haven't heard anything previous. They raged into their set like no other; incorporating blast beats, maniacal guitar chords, and a voice that seemed to mirror a cry from the four horsemen on the eve of an apocalypse. Biblical references aside, the crowd ate it up, going complete apeshit during their set. A pit started to unfurl and fists were going up in the air like no other, adding fuel to the fire for Goatwhore as they progressed. The chants of Goatwhore took place, with some even adding to keep on playing, but of course, it didn't occur. I admire the humor of these guys, mainly the singer and guitarist for Goatwhore. A man in a Banana costume was present at this show and the guitarist went into the mic and said "who is that guy in the costume. I swear, I've seen this guy at almost every show. Did someone lace my beer with acid, man?" It was non-stop fun with these guys. It made the trip worthwhile. If you haven't heard this guys, do it now.

Of course, how would the night go without seeing The Black Dahlia Murder? Odds are you would have had a bad night, in the since of a bad hangover to remind you of missing Dahlia. These guys were the show from the get go and once they started, the chaos started and from there on, it was no turning back, but who would want that anyway? I hadn't seen a crowd go hectic like that since July when I saw Failures and that was pretty fucking chaotic. Kids were going all over the place, to the front, back, sides, and even over the crowd as a couple kids went stage diving and getting kicked out in the process. One even fell straight to the tiles after diving, with a loud thump being overheard from where I was standing. Another kid kicked one of the lights, with the crowd providing a "Ohh!" in the background. From their earlier cuts like Nocturnal to their newer album Deflorate, Dahlia was on the move and made it quite clear. It was hard not to get into them at all, playing practically every song worth hearing live, from "Necropolis" to "a Vulgar Picture". I felt like a little kid at Disney world, still astonished at Dahlia, like it a vivid nightmare gone terribly right, without sounding oxymoronic or wordy.

If the tour manages to make a stop in your town, I advise you to head up and check it out. If you haven't managed to snag a copy of their new album Deflorate, do so as well. I've heard nothing but great reviews of it.

The Black Dahlia Murder Store

Goatwhore

Demonstration- Korova Demo

Korova- Demonstration Demo

1. Women of Sophistication
2. Magnets
3. Shareholders Meeting
4. Prophet with One Eye

There is nothing sweeter than a good ole dose of straight hardcore punk that manages to get you moving,especially one that is willing to combine a variety of different influences that some would not see coming in their direction. Korova seem to have this going on with their new demo, bringing a little bit of the old school hardcore feel, while creating a vibe of their own.

This Alabama band has been gaining buzz all around the world since their full length, Another Happy Customer, was released, getting compared to the likes of Black Flag, Poison Idea, and Ceremony to name a few. With the full length, a 7 Inch, and a couple demos under their belt, Korova have decided to release another demo in hopes of expanding their music and showcasing what this band is capable of, even if a couple kids are in shock and awe with their approach on hardcore punk.

Being new to this band, I didn't honestly know what really to expect but once I pressed the play button to their demo, I was hooked instantly from the minute the feedback had started. From there on, Korova blasted through like it was nobody's business. With these four new songs, Korova put a variety of different takes, incorporating a sludgish, heavier, style similar to Black Flag's My War, mixed in with feedback and vocals reminiscing Jerry from Poison Idea, all launched at top speed. From the first track off side A to the last, Korova doesn't lose its touch for the listener. I was pretty impressed with some of breakdowns that band had in it's second track "Magnets", having this dangerous deadlier vibe with their playing. To make things on the edge and interesting, the band also provided various layered samples through side A, sort of picturing an image of what a radio station would look like if Korova took over; Dismantled, Noisy, and in complete disarray, provided by commentary from a DJ who didn't know what to expect, anxiously awaiting for a response of help. The lyrics from some of the songs mainly deal with the "punk practices", referring it to a consume and digest kind of mantra exemplified on "Magnets" and "Shareholder's Meeting". Although a big majority of bands now a days often make political statements in their lyrics, none seem to manage capture the essential of real anger than Korova, something desperately needed in the current state of hardcore.

Side B is mainly a treat for the listener, showing how Korova would sound like when witnessed up close in person. Korova had recorded a live show during a tour with Vile Intent and Rational Animals, at Magic City Wholesale. Their set list consisted of songs from their catalog, along with an Infest Cover as a special incentive. I think it to understand how the band is live, heading down to any gig of theirs is in order. From what I heard though, it sounds like good ass hardcore show to partake in; lots of action from both the band and the crowd, no impersonations, just pure hardcore.

Demos are up for order at the band's bandcamp account for only $3.75 for the demo itself, a T-shirt package along with the demo for $12.50, and a digital download of the demo for any asking price, no joke. The demos are limited to 100 copies for the time being, but have provided a stream of the demo on their bandcamp site. The demo is worth the buy and considering the asking price for a digital download, It's not a bad deal at all.

One major aspect I found interesting about this band is the fact that Korova are quite supportive of music blogs, found inside and out on the internet, stating they haven't lost any sales what so ever in an interview with noisecreep a while back in July. Vocalist Ian Wise commented on the theory of music blog being the cause of decline sales of music, providing some interesting points for naysayers. I decided to put in that link as well, in case people are curious to hear his standpoint. Overall, the demo is superb in my book and I anxiously await for future releases from Korova. If still unimpressed by any reason, you might as well plug in nothing and hit record.

BUY


"We haven't lost one Sale to anyone from Music Blogs"

Daydreamnation- Double Negative

Double Negative
Daydreamnation
Sorry State Records
2010

It's been a long wait for this LP, considering the numerous delays, unforeseen mishaps, and a genre anxiously anticipating a much needed kick in the ass that would help bring back a more dangerous and exciting feel back to a scene on the verge of dying, at least in a couple people's perspectives. I admit, it's wrong to say that this scene is nearly dying, but I mean it in a way that would boost the morale of the kids these days. This band has clearly met these expectations and I must say, it's quite glorious.

Double Negative are one of a certain number of groups that have gone into the experimental route with their music, incorporating something new each time in their work. Whether it's adding more feedback, involving a sludge sound, or playing ridiculously fast, DN seem to never lose their edge, melting the faces of anyone who happens to be in their way.

Daydreamnation is one never ending ride from start to finish. In comparison to The Wonderful and Frightening World, the band has surpassed expectations and lived up to the well deserved hype surrounding this record. Compared to the whole production of their previous LP, Daydreamnation has more of a sludgy feel, yet manages to still instill an impression. "Beg To a Vile Nude" is more clearer example, with the band showcasing a more slower, pacing intro, more or less reflecting a Jesus Lizard vibe, before going into a faster tempo. It's one of those tracks that happens to get you off guard before you realize how truly great it sounds.

However, branching off to new territory doesn't mean the band has lost their roots. "Endless Disappointment" seems like this track should have been included in their previous LP. None the less, the track is fantastic and sounds rather devious along with the rest of the album. Guitar riffs that would mirror a Sonic Youth influence, strong usage of vocals, and just a great tempo that makes for a legendary track.

"Hospitality" has once of the best bass intros that I've heard in awhile, that would fit nicely on a sludge metal album. The track showcases a rather better description of what hardcore should sound like, but that goes in a different topic that would seem to never end. Anywho, Double Negative haven't missed a second and still kids are shocked as to how fucking good this LP sounds.

If this album were to cement Double Negative into legendary status, I wouldn't be surprised, considering the wait was well worth it. If this album was somehow deemed the best hardcore record of twenty-ten, I wouldn't be surprised either. Hell, if a more mainstream outlet managed to get a hold of a copy, I still wouldn't be surprised. This was the mere kick in the ass the current music scene needed, one that would be remembered for quite some time. I remember hearing the band didn't want any download links what so ever, which is fine by me. The whole package itself is worth paying for, but that's just a mere opinion. If you happen at this point not have yourself a copy of this record, I advise you go out and get one. you'll understand once you witness the sheer power of this record.

Sorry State Records

Strangelight 8/18: Nazi Dust, Population, Leather, Poison Planet, Culo

In my opinion, it was too much to pass up not witnessing Nazi Dust live, taking a chance to witness 5 other shows going on yesterday night on bands I could have cared less for (I'm referring to Bane and Trapped Under Ice, course I'm speaking out of spite). So determined to rid my conscience off, I decided to pay the strangelight a little visit to see Nazi Dust. Boy what an adventure...

I had heard quite great things about the strangelight, mainly since the media here in the city hypes the venue and volunteers every now and then for producing DIY shows and being able to hold up an event like the DIY fair held a couple months back. I'm sure this was no different than any other show space in the city, such as Ronny's and hell, it might be a little bit fun being a basement with rambunctious kids. Located conveniently beside Congress theater, I hoped the Blue line towards California stuck hearing odd conversations about a penguin named goose and almost got lost off Milwaukee. Never the less I made it in peace, and payed the door man $6 in time.

The show didn't start later on till 8, despite the numerous flyers handed out and different sites stating it would start at 7, sharp. It didn't make the show worse at all for me, as I was overhearing Nazi Dust's conversation on Juggaloos and Pirate punk. Quite humorous guys once they get out of their shell. One of the guys leading the shows seemed pretty timid and controlled, but disappointed kids were seeing Bane rather than Dust. Oh well, shame on them.

Culo started up the show quite nicely and encourage a couple of kids to get a little pumped. A band from Elgin, a little county in Illinois, Culo received some national coverage due to an interview with Maximum Rock N Roll a while back, not to mention their 7 inches that will most likely gain them status for years to come. Any who, these guys were great, unleashing a band off fury for an opening band. no mishaps, no worries, despite the crowd not being so much active. In fact, we were quiet, oddly. I blame myself but hey, it didn't slow these dudes one bit and I give them credit for it.

After a brief intermission, Poison Planet were up next to give off some of their energy from their performance. At first I was unexcited by their music, since it was really dreary, slow, the synth was pretty annoying, and I couldn't hear the vocalist from the point where I was standing. However, after time passed, their set wasn't really too bad. The group played off in the manner of Joy Division, giving off that 80's vibe. It didn't hurt them either, but like I said, I gotten bored pretty quickly. No worries though, Poison Planet did pretty decent, at least I wouldn't call their performance or music terrible. I wouldn't hurt if I had listened to them earlier.

After some weird misunderstanding from the lineup, Leather was up right after Poison Planet. Straight outta Philly, Leather put on a very outstanding set. The band was furious, straight to the point, and turned many heads that night. The crowd energy came back during their set, as a couple of kids were starting little pits here and there. Leather even played a Cro-Mags cover for the audience, getting a little more people into their set and joining along for the pit, chanting "DON'T TREAD ON ME!". Although I'm really dismissive of the current hardcore scene aside a couple of bands, Leather really impressed me a whole lot. Kudos Fellas, Kudos.

Population was the second headliner that evening, hailing from the city of Chicago. Population features members from No Slogan, Ultratumbados, Raw Nerve, and Razorfade, playing the same vein as those bands as well; pure unadulterated hardcore punk. the vocalist overall thanked the crowd, the bands, and the caters that evening before engaging into their set list. The band still gave out that same energy Leather unleashed earlier, but the lack of crowd movement probably hurt their set list a little bit. None the less, The band was pretty impressive, dishing out great hardcore songs with all the bullshit needed. It's pretty hard to find bands like that around these days.

Nazi Dust finally graced the stage, at least 3/4 the members did anyway. I still have no clue on the whereabouts of bassist Dan Rossiter, due to many rumors surrounding him via absence. That probably hurt the group for a big portion of their set, although I give them credit for still going on a limb to tour the east coast. Despite Dan's absence, the band went on with the show, playing songs from their well recognized 7 inch and revered Demo tapes. The vocalist was all over the place with no doubt and the guitarist and drummer made no mistakes, and kept on trekking never missing a beat. Much like Population, no crowd movement took place, despite displaying a ferocious, hard-hitting set. I guess it would have worked better had Rossiter taken part of the gig.

All in all, the show itself was not horrible. Sure the lack of crowd energy hurt a good portion of the band's set, but despite the faults, the show was still a success. A bit disappointed Nazi Dust didn't have any of 12 rumored to be released this summer, but none the less, I give them luck on the rest of the tour. Was the hype surrounding the band necessary to see them live? that's up to the scene to decide. As for me, I don't think they were all that terrible to miss out on, considering the options I had for shows yesterday evening. It beats seeing Bane, that's for sure.

Civilization gone Deaf-Mute: Ceremony Rohnert Park

Ceremony
Rohnert Park
Bridge Nine
2010

1. Into the Wayside/Sick
2. M.C.D.F
3. Moving Principle
4. The Doldrums (Friendly City)
5. Open Head
6. Into the Wayside II
7. Terminal Addiction
8. Don't Touch Me
9. Back In '84
10. All the Time
11. The Pathos
12. Nigh To Life
13. Into the Wayside III

If the name Ceremony doesn't pop off in your head and you claim to be a pretty big fan of today's hardcore scene, then quite frankly you have no idea on what you're missing out on. Course, it might be a little impossible to not have heard about Ceremony at one point, considering they're one of the more popular hardcore bands today. Out of the bands gaining mainstream exposure these days, Ceremony are about (probably already even there with this LP) close to be joining the ranks of Trash Talk and Fucked Up as the most critically acclaimed acts. Hardly a surprise but quite a feat for this group.

This Californian monster made their presence known with Thrash/power-violence like influences found on their earlier releases, such as Violence Violence and Still Nothing Moves You. Ceremony has been described as being the most chaotic, wild, and at times violent during their performances, leaving kids astonished and their peers in the dust.

Despite the accolades, their most recent LP, titled Rohnert Park, is quite a vast change and improvement for Ceremony. Long gone are the Negative FX influences in their sound, long gone are the less than a minute tracks that are hard to follow. Instead, Ceremony went on a different route that most of their peers surprisingly avoid, despite the claims of influence and inspiration. the group decided to take a leap in the Black Flag, SST-esqe sound that ultimately created hardcore in general. A big leap indeed.

The entire LP in general is different. From "Into the Wayside/Sick," the band lures you into their hate-filled world, being sick of the GOPs, Liberals, Obama, and ironically Black Flag and Cro-Mags. Lyrics aside, The instrumental portion on the first track mirrors the sound of the Minutemen, echoing a rockabilly-esqe vibe before the madness occurs. Other than the sound, Ceremony decided to include instrumental portions throughout their album, three to be more exact, all titled Into The Wayside, each showcasing that Minutemen vibe in each portion; never a bad thing if you ask me.

If there was a more straight up comparison to Ceremony to any album of Black Flag's discography (I should probably stop name dropping Black Flag too much), My War would probably be the better choice to compare side to side. Though Ceremony doesn't take that doomish-sludge sound, much off every other track found on Rohnert Park brings up that same My War feel; fast, angry, youthful, '84 type of production. It probably would explain why one of tracks is tentatively titled, "Back in '84".

Much like what occurs when a band changes their sound drastically, fans are found to be divided and maybe lost on what would categorized as being their best work. It happened to Black Flag, and more recently Cult Ritual, both bands embracing different directions that left people in the hardcore scene complaining on how terrible or great those routes were. It's really to be expected when happening but let's face it, an artist eventually has to branch out into different areas in order to be considered great.

As for Rohnert Park as a whole, I found to be quite enjoyable at least for my standards.It's no Violence Violence, but hey, it still works for me. Somewhat aghast to the drastic change but great none the less, considering how most bands never fully take that chance and plus, let's face it, Ceremony never seem to disappoint and always deliver that their fans want; pure rebellious music. I hope this group fully gets what they deserve.

By this time, Ceremony are finishing up their touring through the US and to my knowledge are heading up to Europe very soon. My advice would be catch their set in person. I guarantee you'll be left in the dust.


Bridge 9

"Huffing for Gas means braking for Assholes": The Dopamines Expect the Worst

It might be a little risky to fully declare this LP one of the best pop punk releases of this year, considering we're only in August. But honestly, It's going to be quite tough to really top this album.

Hailing from the Midwest(Ohio to be more specific), The Dopamines have been going non-stop in trying to get their name across the mainstream, playing and set to be appearing at various fests; Insubordination Fest, Riot Fest, The Fest just to name a few. Their tour dates have been pretty hectic of late, but are receiving success and much anticipation in this hear release. Is this record worth listening too? Yes, in fact.

Compared to their self titled album, their music hasn't change so much, at least indicating any other genre of music. It's Pop punk, what can you expect really? Their lyrics are somewhat referring to same subjects found in their previous album, such as heartbreak, booze, faults in people, boozes, drugs, booze. Nothing too vaguely different, but what gives this album the punch it deserves is really how the songs are displayed. The Melodic vocals, the driven bass lines, engaging guitar chords, and the just hilarious, catchy, lyrics ever written. Probably a little bonus for TV lovers would be the Futurama sample found on "Waking up In The Monroe House with cat hair in my mouth".

Some of my personal favorites are "You'd make a good Horsecop", the first track off this record. This is one of the tracks that displays great duo vocals from the group, not to mention inspired the title of said review. Another catchy track stuck on replay in my head is "Thank You Very Much", mainly the chorus is repeated in my mind, but try naming a song with a chorus that's pretty irresistible to sing with your thoughts. The track's great if you're ever stuck in a nostalgia moment with friends, recounting old memories found in the back of the closet, good or bad I suppose.

I hope this group gets the attention they deserve when the years comes to a close. Just this year alone, I've encountered this group three times and each of those times they've never failed to disappoint live when they come down to the windy city and the surrounding suburbs of my little town. Truly this band is great, even if you don't like pop punk music what so ever.

Some say pop never truly recovered since the hiatus of the Descendants and with the break ups of soon to be legends in underground music, namely The Ergs! and The Steinways but if there was a stable of bands that were continuing to prove otherwise, The Dopamines would no doubt be included. It's like the saying goes about the Midwest, "We're Strong-You're Weak".

If they're in your town, do the best thing and support these fellas, whether by buying their merch or a case of beer. Nuff said!