CRY OF THE AFFLICTED
I was pleasantly surprised when I heard tracks off this band’s new release, The Unveiling—rather than palm-muting and breakdowns, I heard driving rock beats and soaring harmonies (which sets them apart from their other comrades on Solid State Records). Not to say that there is not screaming here, but the yells are tastefully placed amid tonal guitars and structured songwriting on most of the tracks. Their sound sits better with the Anberlins of the world than the Underoaths.
Lead vocalist Garrett Packer tells their story, one of dedication and vision: “We definitely had a purpose in mind when we started this band three-and-a-half years ago. We are all Christian guys, and we all felt very strongly God wanted to use this music for His goals. That is the No. 1 reason we started. I would say a close second is a mutual desire to do music the right way—not just ‘waiting to see what happens’ or be lazy about our approach. We immediately wrote and recorded an EP and landed a manager and tour. We have been able to achieve all our short-term goals, and are excited to grow our band in the months to come.”
Vowing never to tour the U.S. illegally (but lacking the necessary visas), these Canadians had never set foot across the border prior to signing their record deal. As if by divine appointment, word spread to Seattle, home of Solid State. The band makes its first appearance on U.S. soil this fall, when they bring their commitment to excellence and solid work ethic to our unsuspecting ears. myspace.com/cryoftheafflicted
THE WINSTON JAZZ ROUTINE
Looking for something calm and comforting? Enter The Winston Jazz Routine, a collaboration of artists under the production, songwriting, and multi-instrumental direction of Nathan Phillips. Nathan’s project began when he was attending a small high school in Mansfield, Ohio, several years ago. Under his leadership, multiple musicians have come together to create piano-driven, soothing sounds at times orchestral and other times reminiscent of a heavenly choir. Phillip’s moody piano lines and light, airy vocals will spark your imagination as well as the deepest parts of your innermost being. Their second LP, Sospiri, was just released, and they recently teamed up with none other than Dave Bazan (Pedro the Lion) for a string of dates. myspace.com/thewinstonjazzroutine
WAR OF AGES
Not just another hardcore band hailing from the Facedown Records arsenal, War of Ages seems to rise above the competition. This Erie, Pa., five-piece is metal hardcore at its most positive—and most devastating. Having toured with industry giants Bleeding Through, Throwdown, As I Lay Dying and Terror, WOA is building the type of fanbase most only dream of. Its third release just dropped (Fire From the Tomb), and it reigns as the band’s most aggressive to date. If you like your hardcore seasoned with technicality, this is it. myspace.com/warofages