Spacebeard- Specimen

Artist: Spacebeard

CD Title: Specimen

Label: Bearded Space Music

Reviewer: Peter Cooper

Date: 3-31-10 Pete LaRussa’s (District 9, Step Aside, No Redeeming Social Value) new venture Spacebeard deserves some attention. The band’s debut album , 2007’s “Specimen” contains material that is raw, not slick, and gritty; just the way they like it. I like it too as it pays homage to the origins and development of NYCHC, yet moves further and evolves. Tracks such as “Opportunity”, “The Captains Waltz”, and “Age” have the desire and sincerity that is sorely lacking in much of today’s musical landscape. Spacebeard moved along with their sophomore release, 2009’s “Studio Gig” which saw the tightness and chemistry of the band begin to take shape. “Synthetic” is a song that really shows how the band tightened up and developed their songwriting skills together, while “Fill in the Blanks” shows how much fun they are having together and has hit potential. This veteran of 1990’s NYCHC and his band Spacebeard will be successful as long as they stay focused and remember their roots, which I know very well that they do. Spacebeard is one of those underground bands that deserves the attention of anyone who loves hard rock, metal, punk and hardcore. Keep up the great work guys. 4/5 stars

Pete Cooper- www.facebook.com/pages/Peter-Cooper-Band/103553261084