The Kandidate

Originally formed in 2005 as a duo under the name the Downward Candidate, the ensemble attracted new members, released a well-received demo (Distort & Confuse) and, after a rotating door of band mates, found their ideal line-up and signed with Napalm. With a new moniker, 2010 marks the release of the Kandidate's full-length debut. It's aggressive, high-energy and well produced without being overly slick. Speedy, down-tuned riffs and breakneck drumming (from Evil Masquerade's skin man Dennis Buhl, who has since left) make the album raw and energetic, but musically not too interesting. Labelled as "Euro thrash/death," this Danish band also have hardcore leanings, particularly from singer Jacob Bredhal (ex-Hatesphere). Ostensibly an interesting mix, the music instead is uniform to the point of being forgettable and stagnant. Tossing on one or two choice songs might be a good idea, but listening to the record in its entirety feels more like a chore than a pleasure.