Winds Of Plague – Decimate The Weak (Advance)

Only the strong survive. Decimate the weak.

This album will make your jaw drop. Set to be released 02/01/2008, it will please fans of Bleeding Through, Parkway Drive, Arsonists Get All The Girls.

mediafire | mirror

Minus the Bear – Planet of Ice

Any number of artists could be mentioned that don’t find their knack or niche until a third or fourth album. Any number of artists could be mentioned that continually change their sound and style as they progress, or even return to a previous theme after trying something new. Minus the Bear however, is on a roll. Their latest release, “Planet of Ice” is not so much a new album, but seems to be a continuation of its predecessor, “Menos el Oso.” When listened to as a set, the two year gap between the releases is hardly noticeable. Minus the Bear returns with the same vocal passion, “sci-fi” guitar, and driving rhythms that got me hooked on their previous album. And for those looking for deeper meaning and content beyond the intelligence of the music, Minus the Bear has much to offer lyrically. From the surreal poetic lines of “Burying Luck” to a more straightforward expression in “Dr. L’ling,” lead singer Jake Snider’s definitive vocals gently carry the listener from track to track.

While this release is much along the lines of the previous, it’s not to say that the sound hasn’t matured. I think Minus the Bear has found something that was missing, and is doing well with it. Don’t be afraid to allow a song or two to get stuck in your head, these boys have the tendency to create tunes that will echo in your thoughts.

mediafire

Tegan and Sara – The Con

The latest album from Tegan and Sara, The Con, seems like a disappointment initially, especially after their previous, instantly gratifying release, So Jealous. However, upon listening to it a few times over, it becomes clear that this album is the kind that causes increased appreciation with every listen. With a more melancholy sound, this set of songs introduces a new, mature side of the sisters. Popular favorites, including the title track, The Con and Back in Your Head will draw listeners in, but hidden gems like Relief Next to Me, Are You Ten Years Ago, Hop a Plane and Call it Off will keep them. Overall, expect to enjoy their signature indie pop hooks but look forward to a more stylistic and developed feel. Also, be sure to give the album time to sink in; it is bound to surprise.

mediafire

All That Remains – The Fall of Ideals

All That Remains gained a lot of popularity when their song Six was featured in Guitar Hero 2. Sure, Six is a great song but The Fall of Ideals has so much more to offer. Track 1 (This Calling) starts out with a focused scream, and insane drumming. From there, the rhythm guitar work carries you to the chorus with triplets abound. The track’s memorable chorus features one of the best double kick rolls I’ve heard, and intermittent vocal harmonies. The second half features a nice breakdown with crisp, clean pinch harmonics, and then a short guitar solo. But this is just the first track! The rest of the album features a variety of sounds, from death growls to high-pitched screams, and everything in between, including a little grindcore influence. But they never stray too far from the metalcore sound that holds the album together nicely. Try it out.

rapidsuck | megaupload