Danava

Now this is retro ― dorky vocals, production values and band photos all conspiring to make this seem like an ironic retro-fest. However, a band don't get to tour with Down if there's not something there. And, yes, on their third album, this Portland, OR-based crew prove they've got that certain something that few bands really have: a direct line to the '70s, as heard all over this thing ― retro riffs flying, absurd vocals piercing and bloody amazing drum production impressing to no end. It's almost a bit much to take, but if the sound of Rush playing Kiss tunes filtered through a modern, hip indie sensibility sounds, uh, good to you at all then it's time to get to know Danava. And if bands like Witchcraft and Graveyard float your boat, but you need a bit more guitar wankery, you should definitely check out Hemisphere of Shadows. I mean, just listen to the hysterical "The Last Goodbye," where the Dazed and Confused soundtrack gets even more hazed, dazed and confused on prog, but not without a slight, smart smirk behind the metal curtain.