Corine's CD Capsules

CORINE’S CD CAPSULES

CAPSULE COMMENTARIES

BY REVIEWS EDITOR, CORINE JURGERSON 

FIRESCAPE

Rearden’ Conscience

Random Play Records

Why you might love it:  Something Corporate songwriter/guitarist Josh Partington’s side project breaks away from the familiar emo/piano rock to explore a darker, heavier sound.  Aggressive lyrics and abrasive melodies make this EP a must-have for your collection.   Solid hooks and mesmerizing rhythms round out the album and keep the listener captivated.  Partington easily crosses over from guitarist to a front man; his raspy, sultry vocals give his side project a life of its own: completely separate from Something Corporate.

Why you might hate it:  Diehard Something Corporate fans may be alienated by Firescape’s unique style.  While Something Corporate exudes energy, Firescape kicks it down a notch for a more laid-back, raw feel. The key: Remember that Firescape and Something Corporate are two separate bands, and count your blessings that you have the ability to experience both.   

Overall Grade: A

FINCH

Say Hello To Sunshine

Driv-Thru/Geffen Records

Why you might love it:   The latest Finch endeavor is much harder than their prior record, What It Is to Burn.  Heavy guitar riffs and thunderous drumbeats give the album power and force, and the lyrics even explore deeper, harsher subject matter.  The guys didn’t play the safe route; they chose to evolve as artists and succeeded in pulling it off.  It’s a little hard for my taste, but I’m betting it will catch on.   

Why you might hate it:  Finch went in a completely different direction this time around. The emo pop/punk sound is completely gone and has been replaced by a heavier, hard rock sound similar to bands like Disturbed and Thrice.  A little more screaming is added to the mix, the guitars are a little more furious, the sound is overall a lot more intense.  If you’re not one for change, you probably won’t be impressed by this album.    

Overall Grade: B-

DROPKICK MURPHYS

The Warrior’s Code

Hellcat Records

Why you might love it:  This album is so much fun I couldn’t believe my luck when it arrived at my doorstep.  Bagpipes, and fiery energy put this album in a category of its own: eccentric punk rock.  The Riverdancesque melodies are hysterical, the lyrics are even more hilarious.  And I just can’t get the bagpipe hooks out of my head!

Why you might hate it:  Sure, it’s a little nuts and the polar opposite of what you’re probably used to, but step outside of your box and check it out.  If you can’t stand music that is a little campy and “out there”, you probably won’t like this.  Beyond that, you’re just crazy!  

Overall Grade: A+

THE GIRAFFES

The Giraffes

Razoe & Tie Records

Why you might love it:  The Giraffes’ music is straight up rock ‘n’ roll.  There a lot of original themes, but preachy, raspy lyrics and distorted guitar riffs bring the listener back to metal from the eighties.  Listen closely and you may hear what sounds to be a bit of Metallica’s Master Of Puppets mixed in with Alice In Chains.  Overall, the sound is in-your-face hard rock, and you just might bang your head along with it until it hurts.

Why you might hate it:  It’s debatable as to whether or not there is a place for this genre of music right now.  A seasoned metal fan might love it, but will it catch on to a new fan base?  The overall problem is that the sound is a little too 80’s, and there will only ever be one Metallica.  It’s decent, but nothing to rave about. 

Overall Grade: C

    CORINE’S Grading Scale:

    A --- Gotta Have It! Run out and buy this NOW!

    B --- Good stuff!  Grab it at your convenience.

    C --- Not bad!  Check it out on a rainy day…

    D --- Probably not one of the best choices out there…

    F --- Ouch!  Someone actually recorded this?  Avoid at all costs!!!

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