Comeback Kid - Outsider Review

Comeback Kid

Outsider

Nuclear Blast

Canadian hardcore crew Comeback Kid have returned to recording after a three year absence with Outsider, their first for Nuclear Blast, after exhibiting backbone by completing their previous contract in full.

Formula 1 champion Louis Hamilton could struggle to match the pace set by Loren Legare on the skins, which becomes the canvas the rest of the band use to create the art of this masterpiece.

The yelling of Andrew Neufeld is intense with an energy which is exciting.  It's balanced by band choruses, the occasional melodic vocal, and a trio of guitarists in Jeremy Hiebert, Stu Ross and Ron Friesen on bass.  Their forte is to provide changes of tempo, plentiful hooks and riffs that support the vocalist to express his anthems.

Author Ruth Krauss in the illustrated book (by Maurice Sendak) Open House For Butterflies, wrote  "A screaming song is good to know in case you need to scream" and Outsider fulfils the need with speed and style.

NE

Earl Grey

Earl Grey

The Times You Cross my Mind

Midsummer Records

Mönchengladbach early twentysomethings Earl Grey are definitely worthy of your ears for this, their third EP The Times You Cross My Mind.  Formed only a couple of years ago they combine punk vocals (in English) with a maturity of melody or aggression on a whim.  Over thirteen minutes and five tracks, they display the confidence and swagger gained from their extensive touring schedules.  From the first bars of 1.37 minute opener Nothing (that is anything but!), to the closing melodic fadeout of the last track Hollow, I enjoyed the energy and musical flair of each post-hardcore track. The strong production of their sound makes you sit up and listen.  Catch them early in their career as they are destined for stardom.

NE