Reviewed by Greg Sammons

The UK has yet to produce its own Christian hardcore scene, despite the successes of the North American scene we never really took it up. Yet Taking Names are on a one-band crusade to stir up something in the UK's youth that encourages likeminded people to form hardcore bands and for hardcore fans to get thinking about the positive aspects of Christian living. I just hope and pray that in five years' time, we will have a whole number of hardcore bands that advocate Christianity loud and proud. But here's the bonus, not only are the lyrics and message challenging and powerful but also the music is spot on. On the first play I've got to admit, I felt a little let down by the production but after a couple of spins it really didn't seem so bad after all. It really is brutal and unrelenting stuff but there is room for some melody and gang vocals, which are a welcome addition to the overall sound. This is West Coast-influenced hardcore that wouldn't look out of place on Blood And Ink, Strikefirst or maybe even Facedown Records. In fact after touring the US earlier this year with Facedown band Brutal Fight I wouldn't be surprised if Taking Names are picked up by our American cousins. This could well be the debut of a band that will achieve a whole lot.

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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