2TON PREDATOR
“Boogie”
Diehard Music
rating: 4,5 / 6
Strange to see this kind of band on Diehard. Being opened to all (listenable) music genres isn’t bad at all, though. And 2TON PREDATOR is pretty “listenable”, indeed ;). To put it straight, this is hardcore. Or “angry metal”, if you like that better. Of Swedish origin, by the way. Surprised? I’m not. Sweden has been always known not only for death / black metal hordes, but for those into hardcore as well. 2TON PREDATOR seems to be quite well known act over there, however, taking into account the fact I don’t really get high on this kind of music, this is my first acquaintance with these chaps, and fortunately a good one. In fact, 2TON PREDATOR often cross the bounds of style I’ve just reckoned ‘em to, sounding almost identical to a death metal and stoner rock kind of band here and there. I guess you already got my point and figured out “Boogie” is twice as diversified. Good for you. AND, it’s brutal. Much more metal, much more violence right up into your face than some fucking ENTOMBED could ever come up with… (Herr Stalhammar)

BROKEN EDGE
“Nofamenonamenoshame”
Thundering, a division of MUSEA
(provided by More Hate Productions,
<more_hate@mail.ru>)
rating: 5,5 / 6
Needless to say, I was quite skeptical about this (M)CD. Hardcore of French origin, could it be anything outstanding? I thought not. Mistake. Actually, that’s what often happens to those who consider themselves open-minded whilst not being the ones. Frankly speaking, I don’t know if I’m exactly that sort of person, however that doesn’t change anything anyway. Like I said, BROKEN EDGE come from France and deliver what I use to consider hardcore (or is there any other way to name this kind of music?). “Nofamenonamenoshame” was produced by the man you all should be familiar with, Stephane Buriez – and despite that a good friend of mine, expert in terms of sound-engineering, couldn’t even listen to one single song off this work due to the fact “production seems to be beyond horrible”, I liked both music and the way this CD has been executed. In fact, BROKEN EDGE’s approach to music differs a lot from similar acts, mostly because they contrived to make “Nofamenonamenoshame” sound even more grim and anxious than darkest of black metal efforts I’ve heard recently. Surprised? And now imagine what a surprise it was for _me_. Even in my weirdest dream I couldn’t ever fancy hardcore might be a synonym for somberness. It’s not a dream, though. More likely, a reality. To be honest, I don’t know if I should recommend you this work – you, the one getting high on darker side of metal. But if you have an ability to let yourself be enshrouded in grimmest ambiences captured in a certain CD, this one must be yours. (Herr Stalhammar)

DITCHWATER
Sandra Bee Management
rating: 4 / 5
This isn’t the first time I review a CD by DITCHWATER – first it was a two-track single, this time it’s one track more, although I’m not sure what is really is: a single, a mini-CD, or whatever else. Nevertheless, today’s DITCHWATER strikes as much more exciting in terms of music they offer. What’s that? Hardcore? Well, not really. They call it “heavy metal”, which is a bit misplaced definition, at least in my view, so let’s better name it a successful amalgamation of hardcore, alternative and a bit… yes, heavy metal. Recently they replaced the singer, and it was a wise move indeed. The guy who took over vocal parts possesses twice as impressive voice, varying it from typical –core shouting to more or less enjoyable “clean” singing. Which is definitely good. Usually I don’t get high on this kind of music, but DITCHWATER is one of the few bands I respect and listen to with pleasure. By the way, one fact that may be of interest to you: the band has given out over 3000 CDs via website in pretty short terms. Therefore, no trace of commercialism this time? Exactly.
Website: www.ditchwater.com
Email: Ditchwater1@aol.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

EVE TO ADAM
“Auburn Slip”
Mikendra Records
(provided by Chipster Ent.)
rating: 6 / 6
Just like in case with BROKEN EDGE, I didn’t expect anything worth even few listens, judging by the bio attached to “Auburn Slip”. And again, I was wrong. Terribly wrong. EVE TO ADAM must be the most outstanding act amongst newcomers, whatever the style is. These four guys, seemingly of India’s origin, came up with a CD which still doesn’t let me up, and somehow it seems it won’t, until the very end of time. Each tune off “Auburn Slip” strikes as unbelievably catchy, incredibly well thoughtout and marvelously executed. Rhythm-section works just perfectly, supplementing Taki’s inimitable and, what’s more, stunning voice, as well as stupendous guitar lines. I don’t have an idea of what genre I have to reckon EVE TO ADAM to, and honestly speaking, I couldn’t care less about that. This music can easily make it’s way on MTV, and no less easily serve as a background when you’re having sex. It’s perfect to listen to whilst driving a car, and no less perfect for enjoying it being all alone. Based on unique creativity, emotionally fascinating, EVE TO ADAM undoubtedly deserve everything they could ever wish, everything they were craving for. And, needless to say, in the first turn, this work deserves to be labeled ‘a must to have’ CD and thus given a listen by every living soul.
Website: www.evetoadam.com
(review by Herr Stalhammar)

HOSTILE BREED
“GreenWound”
Irond Records Ltd.
rating: 4 / 6
So you want the truth, huh? Ok, I never really liked this type of music. Actually, I just CAN’T STAND hardcore and alike stuff. But any kind of rule always demands an exception, right? Well, here it is – “an exception”. I got this CD right after I saw these guys playing live, and needless to say, that was a stupendous performance. Unfortunately, this sort of music is being perceived much better live, than while spinning in your stereo. Especially taking into account the fact “GreenWound” lasts for 46 minutes, which is quite uncommon for angry / hardcore. What really surprised me (and doubtlessly pleased my essence), is the fact these guys came up with a _really_ well worked out effort, not mentioning that the performance’s technique is beyond any critics (the same goes for producership, by the way). So what do we have on the outcome? Finely packaged, excellently performed and executed, enjoyable piece of hardcore. Believe me or not, but I like it. Even though I doubt if I’ll be listening to “GreenWound” more often than thrice a year… (Herr Stalhammar)

NOZZLE
“Winter”
Lucky Seven Records
(provided by Diehard Music)
rating: 5,5 / 6
Haven’t you ever heard about Denmark’s Lucky Seven Records? Well, at least I haven’t. NOZZLE’s “Winter” and “Smile” by GODLESS WICKED CREEPS appear as my first acquaintance with this label, and it definitely made my day. NOZZLE is fronted by Dave Blomberg (ex-NEW MODEL ARMY), and it already says a lot about this CD, doesn’t it? Despite the title, NOZZLE don’t have anything in common with black metal, so relax kids. More likely, it’s a stunning mixture of dark wave and alternative rock, perfect for listening both driving a car and whilst being at home, having a good time with a couple of beers. Tranquil and highly melancholic, it nevertheless is a source for churning out positive emotions, backed with a good singer and catchy soundscapes. Obviously, it’s not a perfect gift to a certain chap who gets high on listening to MORBID ANGEL all the day through, although I believe all those who value MUSIC, music that is tremendous, atmospheric and emotional, ought to check this one out. (Herr Stalhammar)