Cunter

This is the first album written by Cunter since their name change (dropping the H, adding a C) over a potential lawsuit. Their last album, 20, came out just a month after that 2011 debacle, which meant the former Hunter had already long since completed recording, not to mention writing. As such, Cunter have ratcheted up their hardcore punk assault to be more deserving of their vulgar moniker. This EP is awash with youthful energy, but not at the expense of songwriting ability. The members' previous time in Alexisonfire and Moneen, amongst others, negates that possibility. Therefore, it's a shame the seven-song EP isn't perfect. Unfortunately, "Stay Hungry" leaves you feeling exactly that — starving for something the song doesn't quite provide, with its excessive drum fill and awkward riff. But they bounce back with a punk-y powerviolence sound not unlike Trash Talk or older Rotting Out. While Cunter occasionally get lost under excesses best left to metal, at least the songs, and therefore those parts, are over before they really get started, in true hardcore fashion. Here's to 27 more.