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| A Place To Bury Strangers |
There’s something to be said for being consistant and even more to be said for being consistently good.
In case you missed it, back in February A Place To Bury Strangers released this little EP diamond Onwards To The Wall. If you’re a fan of the Brooklyn NY trio (actually I think they’re technically a foursome now due to adding a second drummer) and their dense-as-fuck take on the art of shoegaze-buzzsaw- noise rock, then click the link and strap on your headphones, but do dial up the volume gently. Only five tracks but there’s no sacrifice made to their penchant for guitar freakouts and apocalyptic rush.
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| The Red Lapels |
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| Empires |
Last but not least we have Chicago’s own Empires, who come packing an explosive and all but guaranteed arena-worthy sound. Touches of anthemic ala U2 along with doses of blue collar and indie grit (think Gaslight Anthem) served up with Sean Van Vleet’s bold and none too delicate and urgent vocals. 2008 saw them being all generous and releasing their 15-track album Howl for free. It’s a mash up of varied styles and obvious that the band was still sorting out its sound but it’s fine primer. “Spit The Dark” and “I Want Blood” are 180 degrees from “Believe” and “My Poor Love” but good stuff, nonetheless. Yes, just go ahead and download and enjoy the darned thing because come June they’ll release their followup, Garage Hymns, which I expect to be a more cohesive work. Yeah, looking forward to that one.
Til next time….tng.