THE TRACK RECORD - S/T EP

This five-track EP from The Track Record has all the makings of a successful pop-punk release. It's got the high screechy male vocals and the never-ending saga of young adults and their battle with teen angst. To say it's been done before would be a major understatement. When dissected track by tack, this album comes up way short of being original. The vocals remain high-pitched and annoying though all five tracks, and the musicianship is average, at best. It's cookie-cutter pop-punk sound might catch the ears of those who like bands like Yellowcard or The Starting Line. Although I don't think much of The Track Record's sound, I wouldn't be shocked if we hear from them again in the near future. This whiney drab has staying power that can't be explained.

(Review originally appeared in the September 2005 issue of Skratch Magazine)

EMPTY SILOS ECHO WAR - INNER WORKING MECHANICS OF A FAILED CONSTRUCT

Ever discover a band or album that you just can't recommend to everyone due to the fact that it's a bit too "different" for mass acceptance? After listening to INNER WORKING MECHANICS OF A FAILED CONSTRUCT, it's safe to say this album is "different." This disc will take you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions. One second you get suckered into a false security with a soft harmony filled with almost subsonic sounds, and the next second you are being slammed about by harsh vocals and heavy guitars and drum beats. This album is also quite versatile, as evinced on "We Share a Frequency", with its funked-out guitars and catchy lyrics. If you have an open mind to eclectic music, I'd say check it out. You will either love or absolutely hate this album. www.roklokrecords.com

(Review originally appeared in the September 2005 issue of Skratch Magazine)

MINUS THE BEAR - MENOS EL OSO

On their Myspace page, they describe their sound as, "ting ting ting ting, ting ting, ting ting ting ting." But there is a lot more than just "tings" to this second full-length release from Minus the Bear. What you will experience within this album is a great balanced mix of mid-tempo rock with a rock-solid electronica foundation. Those "tings" could come from the high-strung chords of guitarist David Knudson or the futuristic, tweaked computerized sounds of Matt Bayles on electronics. Knudson's guitar seems to be the driving force of the band, along with the impressive and emotional vocals of Jake Snider. The laid-back beat and mellow vocals on "El Torrente" definitely makes it track one of my favorites. This album is worth checking out.

(Review originally appeared in the September 2005 issue of Skratch Magazine)