Screamingangel- The Inner War EP

ARTIST: Screamingangel

ALBUM: The Inner War EP

LABEL: Self-released

REVIEWER: Matthew J.

DATE: 1-19-10

Screamingangel get credit for an eclectic approach that combines hardcore punk with elements of metal and, of all things, staccato piano chords. Where this EP falters, though, is in its execution. The lead vocals are tinny and at times, especially on "Beat the Boy," off-key, though backing grunts and bellows in the death metal mode offset this somewhat, and the garage rock quality of the recording, while appealing on the energetic "Bruises," doesn't help much on the moodier minor-key lament "Inner Voice." Still, in the punk and death rock scene, primitive production values are more often than not a mark of authenticity, and what Screamingangel lack in polish they make up for in intensity. With a little more practice and possibly some better recording equipment, they should have no trouble establishing a niche in the punk and metal scenes.

For more information, visit the band's MySpace page at www.myspace.com/screamingangelmusic.