Reviewed by Jon Wilson

If your ear is accustomed to the angular, jagged hardcore of Fugazi, Barlomarket, Understand, etc then you will love this. The vocals, are excellent (Blenderhead have two lead vocalists), sometimes screaming with intensity and energy and sometimes purely melodic, singing choruses that you can't help but sing along to; check out the more melodic songs such as "Tow Truck", "La Grieta", "Breaking Skin" and the brilliant cover of Talking Heads' "Once In A Lifetime". The more frenzied tracks are full of bouncy punk energy. They also have their melodic moments, such as the middle of "Five Minute Cousin" and the super cool mid-8 of "Queen Of The Day". Lyrics are very thought-provoking, tackling personal issues such as loneliness, individualism, struggling with faith, materialism. It's all very potent stuff. The most telling lyrics belong to "Breaking Skin", about our inadequacy to fully understand the depth of Christ's sacrifice on the cross: "I took for granted all the blood you spilled and the way it broke your heart." This song makes you feel Jesus' love and also the frustration of sin. If you like music fast, energetic, thoughtful and fun to listen to then you must buy this. With the hassle of ordering an import. You won't be disappointed. Blenderhead are my fave band of the moment.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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