Encounter XXX Final Vengeance

Final Vengeance, the latest release by Boise Straght Edge Hardcore band is one that invokes sheer chaos. From the very first moments the record starts to the moment it’s over, each song sends the listener through an onslaught of guitar riffs, driving bass, and such a tight drum beat that it’s impossible to not spin kick.

The vocals are as energized as the instrumentals with clean and clear audio work making it easy to hear them. Yet this clarity is still coupled with some intense and in your face aggression. Combine that with the use of strong and passionate lyrics, it’s easy to see why these folks are so proud of what they play and who they are.

The wonderful recording quality, for a first release, must be noted as well. The layering is very clearly and intricately done with the instruments, and vocals being perfectly balanced. It was so well mixed and mastered that there’s not one instance of elements overpowering each other.

The emotion, tempo, and power of this release is evident and I honestly felt as though I wanted to claim edge just listening to it. Bands like Hatebreed, kickback, some of the bounciness of Earth Crisis, and in my opinion the fun of Youth Crew! Each of these influences are clearly noticeable and are a staple in acknowledging the roots of this band. Without bands like All out War, Kickback, and Hatebreed then Encounter XXX might not present such an aggressive onslaught.

I highly recommend this release and give it a 5/5, the band is currently dwelling in Boise and playing shows locally. Follow them on Twitter and snag one of the cassettes!

Twitter: @Encounter208

Facebook: Encounter XXX

IG: encounterstraightedge

Bandcamp:https://encounterxxx.bandcamp.com/releases
Cassettes: https://delayedgratificationrecords.limitedrun.com/products/645921-encounter-xxx-final-vengeance

Easy Money: 2K19 split review

If you haven’t already checked out the latest release by Easy Money, then you better get on it. Recently I had a chance to speak with Troy and discuss the bands music a little. Coming in on their latest split with Bun Dem Out from London, the band punishes you with groovy and heavy guitar and bass.

The first track, ‘Stalk’, is harsh and relentless with its power and heavyweight groove. It’s easy to see the influence of 90’s heavy hardcore bands, most notably, bands like Shattered Realm and 43Urban. I hear some solid melodic vibes, as well.

I think, though, the stand out of this release is very clearly Nagase Kings. The band sights its influences in the song, ‘Osaka Style’, referencing its love for Japanese hardcore and even its own sound. Again, all of this is purely opinion, but I believe that this release brings Arizona back to people’s minds when they ask the question ‘is there even a scene there?’.

Each song is laiden with heavy mosh-worthy breaks, fast up tempo dance parts, and, most of all, it presents an aggression that I recently heard described as “fearfully violent”. All of this is in the most positive and enjoyable way. Sonically, the recording quality is good. I think specifically this release shines through on a headphone listen. The quality presents a crunchy, unadulterated rawness that only compliments the sheer power and chaos this band presents to its fans in a live setting.

The band is currently in the process of adding onto this release as well. They mentioned to me that the writing process has finished, and they are getting ready to get into the studio to start tracking. Keep your eyes peeled, and in the meantime, listen to this split on spotify or bandcamp!