Bandits and Bibles Author: Larry E. Sullivan (Akashic) This is a fascinating read of essays, poems and recollections written by 19th Century American convicts. The title may make one thing that this about some sort of Christian reform movement, but…
Scott O’Connor “Among Wolves” (Swannigan & Wright) Jesus, Scott O’Connor writes neurotic well. This novella, a measly hour read, reminds me of a story I heard as a kid; two young sisters that have been chronically misbehaving come home to…
Braid “Killing A Camera” (Bifocal Media) Illinois math/indie-rock legends, Braid, decided to break up in 1999. Before they went their separate ways they booked five final shows in Chicago, Milwaukee, and Champaign where Braid was from. These shows were documented…
The Bled “Pass The Flash” (Fiddler Records) James Munoz on vocals, Mike Celi on bass, Ross Ott and Jeremy Talley on guitars and Mike Pedicone on drums. The veteran Bled fans would also chime in that The Bled started the…
Adolescents “Live at the House of Blues” DVD (Kung Fu Records) The average age of these guys has got to be, what? Thirty-five? I’d say forty, but they recently got a new drummer who I think is a bit younger,…
A Death for Every Sin “In A Time Where Hope Is Lost”” (Eulogy) Not since the almighty Hatebreed have I heard such a perfect combination of metal and hardcore. Love it. Crunch crunch crunch. Riff riff riff. Pit pit pit.…
36 Crazyfists “Bitterness the Star” (Roadrunner Records) 36 Crazyfists is named after a a Jackie Chan movie. I like Jackie Chan, but not in a pissed off, karate-on-the-dance floor kind of way. He’s more of a “Rush Hour” comedy icon…
Poison The Well “Tear From the Red” (Trustkill Records) Brilliant album. Showcasing the best of what happens when really emotional metallic scream drenched hardcore can find some melodic within its assault. Both the vocals and music are able to toggle…
The Firebird Band “The Setting Sun And Its Satellites” (Headhunter / Cargo Music) Incredibly diverse and intelligent indie rock. Name-dropping singer Chris Broach (whose previous band Braid broke much ground in the emo/indie rock world) should give a touch point…
The Angoras “Self-Titled” (Angora Static) If you’re looking for light, friendly pop punk with a slight surfer sound lean to it then you need look no further than The Angoras. The female vocals on the album tend to lack emotional…