Apes With Guns

Momentous Event: Say goodbye to This Is Bunnycore.

But reader, fear not, for we're simply going over to Apes With Guns instead, where you're guaranteed to still find an abundance of incredible music.

Awesome, huh? So check it out. And follow it. And love it. Right this second. Or else.

http://apeswithguns.blogspot.com/

Beloved - The Running (2001)

Genre: Post-Hardcore/Melodic Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/beloved

Beloved (now defunct) were an awesome melodic hardcore/post-hardcore band that pretty much owned face. They played their music with such passion and emotion, giving this EP a definite sense of desperation, linking in with the whole title of 'The Running' - evidently they're running away from something. Beloved were a Christian band and embraced their beliefs with open arms, which is mirrored in their music and lyrical content. Well, probably. But yeah, this is a pretty great release and almost as good as the only full length album they ended up releasing, Failure On. It really sucks that they split, definitely a band that could've gone somewhere. So give it a try. Or don't. I mean, it doesn't really affect me if you try it or not. Pretty sure you'd enjoy this all the same.

I mean, probably.

Rx Bandits - Mandala (2009)

Genre: Progressive Rock/Alternative
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/rxbandits

Rx Bandits are that one pretty cool band that used to play ska. Yeah, that one. Well, to either your joy or dismay, they don't play ska anymore. They've evolved above and beyond that, making a logical progression from their previous album ...And the Battle Begun and making a really awesome, chill record with the likes of Mandala. The guitar work is great, showcasing some progressive undertones but also sticking with some really damn catchy melodies. Yep, cool. The only thing is, the band decided to exclude the horns section from their sound, which is fine by me really, it sounds full enough as it is, I think horns might have made the release a bit too cluttered and presumably the band thought the same. Or maybe they didn't and I'm just assuming things. Anyway, this album is pretty great and will definitely receive a bunch of plays from me throughout the summer.

Part One.
Part Two.

Circle Takes The Square - As The Roots Undo (2004)

Genre: Screamo/Hardcore/Experimental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/circletakesthesquare

Circle Takes The Square. Need I really say any more? Delivering a frenzied assault of emotive hardcore, centered primarily around the dual vocals of vocalists, Drew and Kathy, As The Roots Undo is a classic screamo album, and ultimately one of my favourite albums of all time. The songwriting is incredible, the lyrics are deep and meaningful and every single song just drips with emotion. Instrumentally the album rules too, with awesome drumming and guitarwork, transitioning from slow melodic sections to a frenzied mess of aggression and managing to make it all so damn beautiful. Listen to this right now and prepare to both be lulled by the beauty and have your face torn off at the same time. This shit rules.

I know it's all been done before, I wanna do it again! I wanna do it again!

My Own Private Alaska - MOPA (2007)

Genre: Experimental/Screamo
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/myownprivatealaska

Imagine if their was a screamo band without guitars. Just piano, drums and vocalist. Where's the frustration and hell-bent screaming in that you say. Well give the disc a spin and see for yourself. The music here is very creative and the vocals are so amazing. Poetry for one's ears.

Check It Out

*shels - Sea of the Dying Dhow (2007)

Genre: Post-Rock/Metalcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/shels

Progressive metalcore with some heavy post-rock influence and a whole bunch of chill acoustic bits as well, I imagine there would be something for everyone here probably. I guess. Okay, maybe not. Sea of the Dying Dhow (yeah, I don't know what a 'dhow' is either) is a meticulously arranged album, everything has clearly had a great deal of thought put into it and as a whole the record flows fantastically, going from ambient sections to acoustic sections and onward to some damn heavy riffs, post-metal style. These progressions work really effectively and overall the album is really great, if at times it might drag slightly. But that's no big deal because this album is really cool and definitely worth giving a listen.

Pretty much.

Streetlight Manifesto - Somewhere in the Between (2007)

Genre: Ska/Punk
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/streetlightmanifesto

It's the summer time! So, as a result I decided to listen to some ska stuff. Well, here it is. Streetlight Manifesto's Somewhere in the Between. Lightning fast chord progressions, anthemic lyrics and absolutely awesome brass and woodwind sections make for what is probably my favourite ska album of all time. What makes this album even better is how accessible it is, regardless of whether you're a ska fan or not I'm pretty sure anyone could pick this up, give it a spin and enjoy it. Infectiously catchy and a whole lot of fun, overall it's definitely worth giving a try. So I believe you should, in fact, do just that.

Summertime.

Cursive - Domestica (2000)

Genre: Indie/Post-Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/cursive

Domestica is a concept album concerning the relationship between a couple and how it eventually crumbles away to nothing, something Cursive's vocalist would know only too well after having just divorced his wife. As a result the lyrics are intensely thought-provoking and emotional, he's pouring out all his thoughts and feelings to the world through the music. Instrumentally the album is solid too, the throbbing of the bass is audible throughout and the guitar-lines are very well written, going from heavier parts to almost lo-fi at times. Overall it's a catchy, enjoyable and ultimately thought-provoking album that ends up being a cool listen. So check it out, in case you haven't already.

Indiecore?

KRS-ONE - Return Of The Boom Bap

Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/templeofhiphop

The greatest MC that has ever lived. All I have to say. Just download, it's a must have album.

Spittin Rhymes

Castevet - Summer Fences (2009)

Genre: Indie/Punk/Emo
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/romancastevet

Castevet deliver an awesome blend of indie, math rock and emo, clearly influenced by the likes of Cap'n Jazz and various other midwest emo bands like them. They have a very gruff vocalist who is only juxtaposed by the intricate, airy guitar melodies in the background that at times give a nod to post-rock. I really like how it has this really relaxing, kind of dreamy vibe, but at the same time has a bit of a punch to it. Ah, whatever, if you're a fan of Cap'n Jazz or Algernon Cadwallader you'd probably really really like this, and if not you may well like this too. So it's a win-win situation really - do yourself a favour and check it out.

'Melodic Beard Punk'

The Blue Letter - Prima Facie (2007)

Genre: Screamo/Post-Rock
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/theblueletter

The Blue Letter are yet another band that deliver the epic brand of post-rock influenced emotional hardcore, which, in my opinion, they just so happen to pull off pretty damn well. The guitars are used in a spacy manner, setting the whole tone and emotion of the music while the drums power over the top, moving the music along. The vocals are hoarse and raspy in the typical emotional hardcore fashion and compliment the whole textural soundscape that makes up their sound. Also the songs flow into each other flawlessly, so it all seems like one long song which strikes me as pretty cool, however my one qualm is with the 14 minute long track 'Moved in 98', it just doesn't really seem to go anywhere, but it's not too big a deal as the rest of the album more than makes up for it. Either way, emotional hardcore coming your way.

Bam!

Ceremony - Still Nothing Moves You (2008)

Genre: Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/ceremony

With Still Nothing Moves You Ceremony deliver 20 minutes of blistering, furious and angry as hell hardcore, proving that as a band they are very, very pissed off. I feel this album really showcases Ceremony's maturity as they evolve on from past releases, instead of playing at breakneck speed all the time they place slower droning interludes (which are still absurdly angry I might add) that flow fluidly between the more aggressive songs. They showcase furious riffs and fairly unique vocals throughout, with some really proficient basswork supporting all the other instruments. That said, Ceremony are by no means for everyone, at times their songs might seem like disjointed messes, however when it comes down to it these guys are just really passionate and clearly care about the music they make. Obviously when I say care I mean in a really pissed off, angry way. Really, really pissed off.

Rarghgsdfsdf.

So Many Dynamos - Flashlights (2006)

Genre: Indie Rock/Experimental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/somanydynamos

So Many Dynamos pretty much blend a rather impressive amount of genres into their brand of very interesting progressive indie rock. The instruments constantly shift around and develop their sound, resulting in an album that literally almost never becomes boring. Each member of the band is very talented, guitarists moving in and out of dissonant passages to atmospheric sections that draw influences from post-rock, and going on to upbeat indie rock sections as well as much more. The band even makes us of further less commonly used instruments that only add to the album's very eclectic feel. I think the vocals on this release are much more interesting than on their most recent release, The Loud Wars, switching between passionate yells, lazy sung sections and even the odd gang shout. I'm pretty sure there's something here for everyone to enjoy, so check it out.

Fun!

And So I Watch You From Afar - And So I Watch You From Afar (2009)

Genre: Post-Rock/Math Rock/Instrumental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/andsoiwatchyoufromafar

And So I Watch You From Afar deliver a unique brand of, well, post-rock punk so to speak. They produce a very heavy instrumental sound almost reminiscent of post-metal but with precise almost math-rock style melodies interweaving over the top. Rather than choosing to use gentle, brooding build-ups like most post-rock ASIWYFA instead transition from section to section explosively and spontaneously, a much more jagged and immediate switch in sound, giving the album a more energetic, exciting feel. Unfortunately the album did strike me as being a bit too long, I feel they could've cut some bits out as at times it seems somewhat repetitive or incoherent but it's really not a huge problem at all. Overall this is certainly an interesting listen and a different approach to a genre that is all too full of the same old clichés. So do yourself a favour and give it a try.

Part One.
Part Two.

City Of Caterpillar - City Of Caterpillar (2002)

Genre: Screamo/Post-Rock
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/cityofcaterpillar

City of Caterpillar is pretty much what you get if you throw a little post-rock and emotional hardcore together. Now I happen to be a fan of both those genres and as a result I just so happen to be a fan of City Of Caterpillar. They implement the basic formula of long ambient spacey bits that end up building up to chaotic crescendoes and it does, in fact, work pretty damn well. From an instrumental point of view it's solid, particularly on the drumming front, and generally pretty great, but the real attraction is the emotional factor and the tense build-ups that explode impressively afterwards. Well I really enjoy it anyway, to the extent that I'd probably call this an emotional hardcore classic.

But Why Caterpillars?

Yndi Halda - Enjoy Eternal Bliss (2006)

Genre: Post-Rock/Instrumental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/yndihalda

Probably one of the most beautiful records I've ever had the pleasure of listening to, Enjoy Eternal Bliss is just an awe-inspiring album of post-rock awesomeness with extra violin to boot. I find this really mesmerising to listen to and will probably have great difficulty doing this any justice with my description. Unlike most post-rock Yndi Halda take a much happier and just generally blissful approach to the genre, using a lot of violin and the like to build up to just plain beautiful crescendoes that are simply wonderful to listen to. I'm not going to spoil anything but the end of the first track "Dash and Blast" is just amazing, seriously, it makes me want to laugh, cry and sing all at the same time whenever I hear it, it's just that good. This really holds true for most of the album and I really can't wait to see what these guys put out in the future, which hopefully should be soon since they're recording at the moment. Awesome.

Part One.
Part Two.

Skycamefalling - 10.21 (2000)

Genre: Metalcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/skycamefalling1021

10.21 is easily one of my favourite metalcore releases, coming from a band that is somewhat unheard of in the metalcore scene (as far as I'm aware). Rather than attempting to be incredibly 'brutal' Skycamefalling focuses more on memorable songwriting and pouring emotion into it, with the lyrics concerning the breakdown of a relationship. I know this might make it seem somewhat whiny and the like, but don't be fooled, it's incredibly well written and ultimately proves to be very moving. Ironically my favourite track off this is the instrumental interlude towards the end '10.21', the band choose to eschew their crushing guitar riffs in favour of acoustic guitar and piano and it works really well, displaying some Eastern influences and just proving to be a breath of fresh air. Whatever, this release is just awesome.

Yep, awesome.

So Many Dynamos - The Loud Wars (2009)

Genre: Indie Rock/Experimental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/somanydynamos

With their new release So Many Dynamos (which in case you haven't already noticed is the same if you read it backwards) have expanded on everything they'd previously done, however at the same time have toned it down a bit. Musically they make use of less contrasting elements as they did previously, so it's not as heavy hitting and there aren't really any stark bits that stick out, instead they've combined them together subtly, the contrast is still there if you look deep enough. The vocals seem less energetic than the previous release, which I'm not really a fan of, they almost sound lazy, like the vocalist can't really be bothered - I'm not sure what's up with that, but either way this is a relaxing listen and is actually far from 'loud' as the title might suggest. Anyway, if you feel like a chill indie rock listen then hit this up.

Yeah.

The Dear Hunter - Act III: Life and Death (2009)

Genre: Progressive Rock/Alternative/Indie
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thedearhunter

Life and Death is the third act of The Dear Hunter's ambitious 6 album concept and it's really good. Casey takes influences from all over the rock world, incorporating them into his grand scheme and managing somehow to make it all work. It sounds fantastic listening to the album all the way through, it really conveys the concept and the feel he was going for and when listened to individually each song is great too. One thing I love about Casey is how he uses all sorts of instruments and experiments with them, I find it really cool and this album doesn't disappoint on the instrument front. So really, what's not to like? I actually can't wait for the rest of the installments, listening to each album back to back from Act I through to VI would be pretty ridiculous, assuming that the future albums will be great too (which I'm sure they will be).

Part One.
Part Two.

The Syncope Threshold - Tales Of The Complex Circuit (2009)

Genre: Metalcore/Progressive/Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/tstband

Lol lame Protest the Hero worship lol. wankywankywank.

Linky.

Oceansize - Frames (2007)

Genre: Rock/Experimental/Progressive
Myspace: myspace.com/oceansizeuk

If I could, I'd also classify this band as tech-indie, ambient, post-hardcore, post-metal, post-rock, shoegaze, and mathcore. Yea. Oceansize is one of the most amazing and intriguing bands I've ever heard. Lovely Gavin Rossdale/Chris Cornell-esque vocals on top of lightly distorted guitars and powerful drums with the occasional pummeling of double bass. And you can't forget the presence of the piano ambience. Oceansize maintains their composure from song to song, whether it be a slow post-rock song like "Savant" or an aggresive powerhouse like "Unfamiliar" or "Sleeping Dogs And Dead Lions". This CD contains 9 songs and manages to keep it under 115MB. Lol. This is another band that I push people to listen to. So if you have time to chillout and listen to about an hour and a half of eargasms, then I strongly encourage you to give this CD a try. For fans of Amplifier, A Perfect Circle, and music without any boundaries.

Part Uno
Part Dos

Daitro/Sed Non Satiata - Split (2008)

Genre: Screamo/Post-Rock
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/daitro

Two of the leading bands of the current wave of french screamo decided to record a split and what do you know? It just so happened to turn out awesome. Both bands showcase their brilliance and execute their own niche of the genre near-perfectly, Daitro following a slightly more aggressive approach to the genre and Sed Non Satiata deciding to take it more slowly and steadily, crafting epic build-ups post-rock style. I might be slightly biased as I love this style of more melodic, epic screamo but to be honest, both bands are really good at what they do and as a result this split is also really, really good. Isn't that a coincidence? Listen and enjoy.

Nice nice nice.

Pg.99 - Document #8 (2001)

Genre: Screamo/Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/pageninetynine

"Punk rock should mean freedom. Liking and accepting anything that you like. Playing whatever you want, as sloppy as you want, as long as it's good and it has passion." Passion is something that pg.99 (or pageninetynine) most definitely have an abundance of. They play a highly emotional brand of chaotic hardcore that transcends musical talent or anything of the sort - it doesn't matter that they don't play a thousand different time signatures and aren't ridiculously technical, because the music is just straight from the heart. This record has to be felt rather than just listened to, I can't really describe it. It drips emotion from every seam, just don't be put off if at first it just sounds like a chaotic mess - it takes a while to get it.

Crazy Stuff.

Means - Sending Your Strength (2007)

Genre: Melodic Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/means_music

Sometimes hardcore can be beautiful, which is the case with Means. "Sending Your Strength" an album I listen to almost everyday, it usually never leaves my cd player and is the most top played album on my itunes account. Means play melodic hardcore but they differ from the rest of the Comeback Kid and Misery Signals clones. Blending brutal yet honest screaming with one of the most sincere singing voices ever put to tape. Means set themselves apart from the hardcore scene. When I found out they were breaking up I couldn't believe the news. They left us with great music and I guess it was just their time. Means left a mark on the scene. A mark that will never go away and shows us all to believe in hardcore till the day we die.

"These Cadences
These Songs I Will Remember"

Breather Resist - Charmer (2004)

Genre: Hardcore/Metalcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/breatherresist

Yet another awesome band that felt the need to split up after releasing but a single full-length, Breather Resist deliver a pummeling assault of metal-influenced hardcore. Violently discordant guitars and the throbbing, distorted bass result in an impenetrable wall of sound, complimenting the mess of distortion that is almost always present. The music is pretty damn relentless and the lyrics are dark and introspective (although you wouldn't be aware of this unless you actually read them, the vocalist's screams are pretty much incomprehensible). Overall this is just a great release and a cool listen, so by all means, give it a try.

Kickass.

Past Lives - Strange Symmetry (2008)

Genre: Post-Hardcore/Experimental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/pastlivesmusic

Feel like listening to 15 minutes of music that somehow manages to be easy to listen to, almost catchy and yet still retains a feeling of danger or fright? Yeah? Well then Strange Symmetry may well be the EP for you. Past Lives are made of former members of The Blood Brothers (among others) and are really quite cool. They go from distorted almost poppy riffs to a frenzied mess of guitar within seconds, all while maintaining their momentum and musicianship. I love how the music is drenched with a very dark atmosphere, which to say the least ultimately ends up making this very interesting to listen to. Well anyway, I really like it and am looking forward to whatever they release in the future so give it a try.

Link removed due to request. If you really want it I guess you could ask nicely.

Sides Of The North - The Incurable Romantic (2005)

Genre: Rock/Indie/Ambient
Myspace: myspace.com/sidesofthenorth

Sides Of The North is a band that I listen to that differs from my usual tunage. They are a bit more alternative/mainstream sounding. Even though no one has really heard of them. Don't let the word "mainstream" scare you please, the sound these guys produce is magic. What really makes this cd what it is, is the vocals. They are not Dallas Green league, but the style of the vocals is beautiful. I thought they could do a bit more with the music, but what the music lacks, the vocals make up for. I know I'm really bad at constantly comparing bands with a group of other bands, but it's what I do, and it helps people out. I would say SOTN is a mix of Cool Hand Luke vocals and music, Deftones guitar and music style, and Scarlet vocal style. Sounds interesting right? It's worth the download. Also, make sure to check out tracks, "The Incurable", "The Up And Up", and "Slowly And Sometimes Never". Enjoy :)

Curious.

Converge - You Fail Me (2004)

Genre: Metalcore/Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/converge

Raw, powerful and edgy, You Fail Me is the 5th (?) full-length release by prolific metalcore titans Converge. I also happen to think it's criminally underrated when compared to the likes of Jane Doe, arguably Converge's magnum opus. This is a solid wall of punk, hardcore and metal that violently assaults your ears and just plain rules. The vocalist, Jacob Bannon, is one seriously pissed off guy, I don't understand how he can shriek his tortured lyrics album after album, it's pretty intense stuff. Also, they're releasing another album this year which I'm really excited to get my hands on, should be really good from what I've heard of it! To be entirely honest, I just love Converge and everything they've done. Everything. So you'd better like them too. Or else.

CONVERGE.

Minus The Bear - They Make Beer Commercials Like This (2004)

Genre: Indie/Rock
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/minusthebear

This EP just sounds right. I can't really explain it, the music just works - as a band Minus The Bear implements excellent grooves that fit together perfectly and just make for a wonderfully refreshing listen. At points it's technically challenging and definitely impressive from a musical perspective, fantastic guitarwork and a distinct groove that is just intensified by the awesome musicianship of the drums and bass. They throw the odd synth in at times, which work effectively, even if they may occasionally overpower the rest of the instruments, but really, I don't see any proper flaws in this. It's pretty much a perfect little slice of indie rock.

Link removed due to request. Sorry. ):

Trophy Scars - Hospital Music For The Aesthetics Of Language (2004)

Genre: Post-Hardcore/Experimental

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/trophyscars

Hospital Music, the debut release by Trophy Scars, a band that seem to transcend musical genres and certainly don't limit themselves when it comes to experimentation. However they manage to experiment in a flowing manner that just seems right - this experimentation never becomes distracting or anything of the sort. The music itself is beautiful and melodic, yet at the same time almost painful and tortured, mainly due to the poetry of vocalist, Jerry Jones. Yes, I said poetry. His lyrics are fantastic and while I'm not the biggest fan of his voice, it certainly fits the music. Overall this is an emotional experience that ranges from epic melodic crescendoes to playful jams and even the odd breakdown, which all in all comes down to an enjoyable listen. Pretty cool, huh?

Well, yeah.

Underoath - Define The Great Line (2006)

Genre: Post Hardcore/Metalcore
Myspace: www.myspace.com/underoath

Underoath is one of my all time favorite bands. They helped usher me into what I listen to today, basically paving the way for my musical tastes. I could put any one of their albums up here and be perfectly content. They can do no wrong in my book. They are all fantastic musicians, putting out some truly amazing songs. From extremely heavy to extremely soft UO has a great handle on what they are doing. I chose Define the Great line...well for no particular reason. Eventually I will get all of their stuff up on here because it is truly that great. Define the Great Line is the heaviest UO album. It differs from their previous record because Spencer actually wrote the lyrics he would scream and Aaron wrote his singing parts, whereas on the previous record Aaron wrote all of it. Define the Great Line is really a fantastic album, and if you haven't already checked out Underoath, you will love what you are about to hear.

Perfection.

The Dillinger Escape Plan - Irony Is A Dead Scene (2002)

Genre: Mathcore/Experimental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/dillingerescapeplan

A 4 song EP combining the instrumental might of TDEP and the sheer vocal madness that is Mike Patton, holy shit awesome! One of the craziest bands on the planet teaming up with one of the craziest vocalists on the planet to make this little piece of madness. The riffs are all over the place, the drumming is absolutely intense and as for the vocals, well, they're just plain crazy. Mr. Patton goes from blood curdling yelps to creepy whispering in the blink of an eye and really doesn't sound at all sane, it just makes me wish he had done a full length with them - at 4 songs this is really way too short, particularly since the last track is a bit of a sub-par cover of Aphex Twins's 'Come To Daddy'. But hey, this is essential for fans of crazy music in general, I love it.

Madness.

Group X - Stepping on the Crowtche owf Your Americain Presidaint (2000)

Genre:Rap/Rock/Comedy
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/groupxarabianrapsensationsofficial

So check it. This right here is comedy music. Super funny and fucking hard to find. Group X The Arabian Rap Sensation will leave you breathless as you laugh hysterically over the course of this 19 track album. Don't worry kiddies they're not a terrorist band, just some dudes from Georgia making funny ass songs. Hit Songs such as "Johnny Poo Poo Pants" and "Pay Your Gas Or Lose Your ID" If Your Offended By This Music. Then...

EAT SHIT!!!

A Wilhelm Scream - Ruiner (2005)

Genre: Punk/Melodic Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/awilhelmscream

Ruiner - an awesome offering of explosive punk from the likes of A Wilhelm Scream, this delivers the kind of super melodic, raging punk sound that they've become known for. The musicianship is ever impressive, highly technical guitarwork as well as great stuff from the bass and drums along with the punctuated, fearless vocals that make great use of multi-layering, I mean really - what's not to like about this? It has it's slower poppier moments but the majority of the time it's balls out lightning speed aggression and I absolutely love it. If you dig this be sure to check out their other albums, I'm also fairly sure they're releasing another album this year so you have that to look forward to as well!

Yay!

Brides - Ocular.Unveil (2008)

Genre: Experimental/Hardcore/Progressive
Myspace: myspace.com/bridesmusic

Brides is a very interesting band. They bring their diverse sound to hardcore and tranform the genre. The opening track is probably my favorite. It's basically an intro with light guitars, a solid drum beat on toms and snare, a beautiful piano underscore, and awesome vocals repeating the same line. Then there's a quiet area and BAM, an aggresive onslaught of melodic euphoria. And the clean vocals switch to raw vocals and it sounds sooo much like Polar Bear Club. As for the whole album, it's probably one the best cds I've heard in years. Experimental melodic hardcore rock to the max. One thing though. The 2 people singing on here strangely sound like 2 other people. Like I said, the raw vocals sound like PBC but a bit more yelly at times, and the clean vocals sound like, get ready, Fall Out Boy. BUT!!! I promise it works. Just download it please. Probably one the best cds you'll download this year, I can promise you that.

AwesomeToTheMax

Anchors For Arms - Remember Why You Came This Far (2009)

Genre: Hardcore/Rock
Myspace: myspace.com/anchorsforarms

One of my favorite pop-hardcore bands. Perfect mix of hardcore, solid rock, and really catchy hooks. And by pop-hardcore, I do NOT mean like ADTR. Anchors For Arms is completely different. From song to song, you can notice that they just wrote what they felt like. Some songs are just straight up catchy and then there are some that are a bit more heavy with sweet jams/breakdowns but still just as catchy. I really dig the vocals. Nothing outstanding but it all comes together nicely. Alot of harmony. AFA for some reason reminds me of Energy. So if you like Energy, you'll dig AFA. Get this yo.

Catchyness

Frodus - And We Washed Our Weapons In The Sea (2001)

Genre: Post-Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/fci

Frodus honed a sound reminiscent to the post-hardcore of Fugazi and Refused, but taking a slightly more experimental approach to the music. There really aren't any faults with this record, the bass is always interesting, as is the guitar work, the singing ranges from resigned singing to shrill emotional yelling, and the drums lay down rhythms that make nearly every track. This is just a fantastic testament to the post-hardcore genre in general and I advise any fan of post-hardcore, or even hardcore in general, to give this a listen. Hell, Thrice even covered the track "The Earth Isn't Humming", you know it must be good.

Sweet.

Mono - Hymn To The Immortal Wind (2009)

Genre: Post-Rock
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/monojp

Hymn To The Immortal Wind is a beautiful piece of post-rock, with the perfect blend of layered guitar melodies and the odd piano and strings, it just all goes together so well. They've perfected the art of musical climaxes, the build-ups are just incredibly impressive and then the crescendoes themselves - the soundscapes are absolutely huge and seriously just beautiful. Even if you're not a fan of post-rock I advise you check this out, even if you just use it to chill out to, because this is simply sublime and a pleasure to listen to, none of my words can really do it justice. My favourite post-rock band ever? Quite possibly.

Epic.

Life In Your Way - Waking Giants (2007)

Genre: Melodic Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/lifeinyourway

Waking Giants is a strikingly passionate melodic hardcore album, making use of bruising metalcore moments in the vein of Misery Signals and mixing it all up with the spacy melodic parts that I'm a huge fan of. A wise man once said that this sounds like the album Hopesfall never released and he was very much correct, it would fit perfectly between No Wings To Speak Of and Satellite Years. The only concern I have with this release are the clean vocals. Don't get me wrong, they sound fine, it's just they seem a bit out of place at times, although maybe that's just me. As with so many bands I start to like they've already split up, which is really lame. Enough negativity though, these guys play some really cool melodic hardcore so give them a try.

Enjoy.

My Epic - I Am Undone (2008)

Genre: Alternative/Indie
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/myepic

This is a CD that requires multiple listens to quite get go grips with it's beautiful blend of guitars and violin and just plain awesomeness. Every instrument is played with passion, the guitar creates stunning atmosphere and has creative little flashes, but never goes over the top. The same goes for the other instruments, it all fits perfectly along with the vocalist, who ranges from quiet murmurs to emotional wails and everything in between, conveying all manner of emotions with intelligent, if a bit Christian, lyrics. It all comes across as really relaxing, yet emotional and moving at the same time - as the band's name suggests, this really is epic.

Yes!

The Velvet Teen - Cum Laude (2006)

Genre: Indie/Experimental
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thevelvetteen

This is... kind of strange. I guess I'd call it eclectic indie stuff with electronic bits and just odd experimental sections, but don't let that put you off - it does sound pretty cool, even if it is hit or miss some of the time. The vocals are good, even if there is a weird vocal filter used at times, not the autotune kind of vocal filter but.. different. One thing I can say for sure is that the drumming is really, really cool, he has some awesome fills and stuff. If I'm honest you're better off ignoring my half-assed description and just listening to it.

Link removed due to request - you can buy the album here.

Poison The Well - I/III II/III III/III (2009)

Genre: Metalcore/Post-Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/poisonthewell

Poison The Well return briefly with 6 new songs before they release their next full-length, which I have to say I'm really looking forward to. Unlike what seems like the majority of people I really enjoyed their last album Versions, I like how it had a much darker more experimental feel. Anyway, as for this EP - it's effectively taking the sound of Versions, fast, addictive and upbeat songs with nice clean parts and well yeah, that's all there is to it really. I find this really easy to pick up and listen to, it doesn't really require much thought while listening and keeps you hooked. What more do you want out of music really? Remember to look out for their next album, titled Tropic Rot, that's set to be released July 7th!

Mhmm.

mewithoutYou - (A -> B): Life (2002)

Genre: Post-Hardcore/Indie
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/mewithoutyou

(A -> B): Life is the debut album by mewithoutYou and strikes me as being their most raw and passionate attempt. Vocalist Aaron Weiss screams out all his problems to the world, expressing all his passion and emotion with brilliantly poetic and deep lyrics, his voice on the other hand is definitely an acquired taste - you'll either love it or hate it. Musically this album takes a lot of influences from the hardcore scene with lots of indie or alternative or whatever influences on top. If I'm honest I really can't explain it, but the lyrics and sheer emotion that is conveyed here almost make the musicianship itself irrelevant. Just listen and be moved.

Clickyyy.

With Honor - This Is Our Revenge (2005)

Genre: Hardcore/Punk/Rock
Myspace: http://myspace.com/withhonorhc

This Is Our Revenge is the last of With Honor's amazing cds. And what a way to go out. This cd is superb. The one-liners in this cd are simply great. "I still believe, that faith can move the mountains." I could list a TON more, but that one always sticks in my mind. And as for the music, they can't go wrong. Melodic hardcore at its finest. With positive lyrics that could make the most depressed person feel better about their life. With Honor is just straight up hardcore, solid and true. And that's how I like my music. This is one of those 10 or so cds that I push on people to get. I'm pushing you now.

Positivity

With Honor - With Honor (2003)

Genre: Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/withhonorhc

With Honor's self-titled debut EP launched them forwards into the world of hardcore, mixing together the chaotic side of hardcore with more melodic punk sensibilites and pulling it all together with fantastic musicianship. Every song is memorable, with the music being fast and raw, yet flowing perfectly. The vocals are earnest and rage-filled, conveying raw emotion that really grips the listener and the drumming and musicianship in general is absolutely phenomenal. This 10 minutes or so of music (waaaay too short!) is nothing short of necessary for any and all fans of hardcore.

Intense.

Polar Bear Club - Sometimes Things Just Disappear (2008)

Genre: Indie/Post-Hardcore/Rock
Myspace: http://myspace.com/polarbearclub

Polar Bear Club is one of those bands that put out a cd not realizing that it is pure perfection. I imagine they enjoy their own music, but I don't know if they know that their music is completely incredible. I'm serious, this cd is flawless. So much passion and honesty. Not to mention some of the best music I've ever heard. Beautifully raw vocals and lyrics mixed with, I guess you could say, melodic punk guitar work? I can't even explain it. If Rise Against had babies with Hot Water Music and then their children had babies with Further Seems Forever, then you'd come out with something close to PBC. Sound about right? Yea, that's it.

Life Changing

Set Your Goals - Mutiny! (2006)

Genre: Pop Punk/Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/setyourgoals

Set Your Goals deliver a fresh and enjoyable pop punk/hardcore hybrid that just so happens to be catchy as balls (assuming that balls are really damn catchy). They combine the youthful, playful elements of pop punk with the conviction and dedication of hardcore, bringing together elements we've all heard a million times before in a more original way that turns out to be really, really fun. I love how energetic and full of life this is, it's just great. They use two vocalists on this release and I can't say I'm a huge fan of the whinier one, but it doesn't really detract from this at all. Oh, and the concept revolves around pirates - I mean, what's not to like?

Pirates!

Hot Cross - Risk Revival (2007)

Genre: Post-Hardcore/Screamo
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/hotcross

With Risk Revival Hot Cross refined their sound and made a really catchy post-hardcore-ish album that's really fun to listen to. It's not as instrumentally or musically impressive as past releases, although it is by no means bad by any stretch of the imagination. If anything this probably just adds in making the album even catchier, if it was more technical I can't see it being as much fun as it is. The vocals sound much more youthful and even hopeful in comparison to past vocal performances, which is a breath of fresh air. Unfortunately the album is a bit too long, I do struggle to get through it all as the tracks ends up blending into each other a bit, but it's fun for the odd listen so give it a try.

Clicky.

Hot Cross - A New Set Of Lungs (2001)

Genre: Screamo
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/hotcross

Hot Cross, one of many bands that formed out of the ashes of the legendary Saetia, created a solid debut EP with A New Set Of Lungs. It showcases the intense chaotic screamo noise that Saetia were known for and yet also includes subtle hints of the post-hardcore influenced sound that Hot Cross would choose to take with their future albums to come. Unfortunately this EP sounds quite rough around the edges, like they were still getting comfortable with the sound they wanted, which in a way is exactly what they were doing. I have to say I do prefer the more technical post-hardcore sound they took up after this release, but this is still a solid 15 minutes of screamo and worth giving a listen or two.

Linkylinky.

La Dispute - Somewhere At The Bottom Of The River Between Vega And Altair (2008)

Genre: Screamo/Post-Hardcore
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/ladispute

La Dispute is one of my favorite bands. Although, with extremely emotional lyrics and vocals, it may be hard for some people to get into. After getting over the initial hump, Somewhere At The Bottom Of The River Between Vega And Altair (hows that for an album title) turns out to be a masterpiece. His lyrics are emotional, thought-provoking, poetic and often times cheesy. Even so, vocals take top spot on this album. Streaching from a whisper into controlled talking to heart wrenching screams, he is really able to convey how he feels with ths subtle tremors in his voice. Combined with stellar guitar work and sparratic drums La Dispute is able to produce one very solid record. Listing to them will convey some sort of emotion in you, I can guarantee it. This is one band that I highly reccomend everyone try out. Anyway La Dispute is a fantastic band and I urge all of you to open your ears and minds and give them a real chance...I'm sure you won't be disappointed. If you like it, buy it! (I did!)

Slam!