- KYS: 90
- User: 77
- 84
Endless Heights - Dream Strong
Endless Heights have solidified their position within the Australian hardcore scene with the release of ‘Dream Strong’, a six-track EP reinforced by exceptional production values that moves far beyond anything the band has done before. This professionalism emphasises the musical accomplishment of the band’s songwriting on this release, juxtaposing soaring, angelic lead guitar phrases with driving chords and riffs that demonstrate large nods to the heavier sensibilities of the melodic hardcore genre. The end result is an EP bleeding with intense emotionality that never allows itself to stagnate.
- KYS: 80
- User: 67
- 73
Every Avenue - Bad Habits
Bad Habits paints a picture of a band on the brink of maturity. For all the albums bitterness there is also a heart present that many listeners have never heard before. The raw emotion that is present for most of the album makes it clear that Every Avenue are a band no longer afraid to embrace the darker side of human emotions, even if it means forfeiting the mediocre pop rock act they held so strongly to. Bad Habits is only the beginning.
- KYS: 80
- User: 10
- 45
Exhumed - All Guts, No Glory
This is certainly not an album to be played in any conservative circles. Even by metal standards this is quite vicious. The Bay Area's proven track record continues. 'All Guts, No Glory' is heavy and unwavering. Essentially, two adjectives that should always come attached to a sound like this. Recommended.
- KYS: 77
- User: N/A
- 77
Evan Brewer - Alone
In a little over 27 minutes, Evan Brewer turns the bass stereotype on its head. 'Alone' is a promising, ten-track offering that highlights the possibilities that can be achieved when a little thought and effort is applied. Let's hope this same application makes it's way onto the new Faceless record.
- KYS: 72
- User: N/A
- 72
Ed Gein - Bad Luck
'Bad Luck' is a reflection of a band still capable of throwing a few punches. The music is dynamic albeit attached with a change in sound. You get the feeling Ed Gein was influenced by no one other than themselves this time around. It's the studio album they wanted to make it. Love it or leave it. It's that simple.
- KYS: 78
- User: N/A
- 78
Enslaved - The Sleeping Gods (EP)
Enslaved quietly deliver a simple yet highly structured and effective EP which offers an insight into where the band seems headed. 'The Sleeping Gods' is further evidence that these Scandinavians don't need to prove anything to anyone when the music does all the talking.
- KYS: 81
- User: 90
- 86
Explosions in the Sky - Take Care, Take Care, Take Care
I wasn’t sure what to expect really when I took on this record, but Explosions in the Sky has been a pleasant surprise. As with all of these ambient-driven groups, they’d be better appreciated live I’m sure, but their work translates beautifully onto record. I hope outside of their on-stage, recording and touring opportunities that they continue to feature in film, too, as their sound is meant for the big screen. If Reznor can pull it off, these guys can too.
- KYS: 65
- User: N/A
- 65
Endwell - Punishment
'Punishment' continues Endwell's rise from merely a musical 'also-ran' to a band with a bit of spark. However, when you're starting from scratch there is only one way to go. Optimistically speaking, 'Punishment' again is an improvement but with the band changing their sound and style with each subsequent release it's time to choose a direction and find some much need continuity for the band and listeners sake alike.
- KYS: 76
- User: 70
- 73
Emery - We Do What We Want
‘We Do What We Want’, I think, has a little something for all Emery fans. It lit a fire in my belly from the very beginning, and by the time of close, it began to flicker as the record took a mellow turn; perhaps a forerunner to their acoustic record this year. Where the anger came from, and its source, is beyond me; though I’m not opposed to it, as Emery have produced a raw and personal record that is a far cry from what I expected. Devin who? No, I kid. Don't stay away too long.
- KYS: 86
- User: 70
- 78
Eisley - The Valley
It’d be unfair to lump Eisley into the bursting genre that is indie rock, though it is what they are – and they do it well. If there’s any justice, they’ll snowball and gain the recognition their work warrants.