Sound: Nitro-fueled, hardcore-meets-metal riffs join caustic-but-melodic vocals and fist-pumping, sing-along choruses.
Lyrics: Critical observations on politics, societal norms and the immediate world around them. Plus, some indictments of and attempts to justify the hard-partying, cross-country-traveling rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle.
Heavy Rotation track: “The Patty Hearst Syndrome”
Medium Rotation tracks: “What Separates Us All”; “Melatonin”; “I’ll Be Gone”; “Shine”
Explicit Lyrics*: “Melatonin”; “This Sinking Ship”; “Little Bohemia”; “I’ll Be Gone”
Recommended: If you’re a fan of bands that keep the adrenaline churning while tackling tough issues and raising thought-provoking questions. Also, Smoke or Fire should hit your sweet spot if you have a fondness for vocalists that can turn antagonistic venom into soaring memorable hooks (think Rise Against, At the Drive-In, Sparta and Avail).
Grade: B+

Download “The Patty Hearst Syndrome” MP3

Download “Melatonin” MP3

* Noting of explicit lyrics is for the benefit of radio music directors or anyone else that needs/wants to keep their music FCC-friendly.