Redeemer

Mediaskare's new imprint kicks off with a few releases from their initial roster this month. And in contrast to the metalcore/djent their parent company tends to release, Phoenix, AZ quintet Redeemer are an introspective, Defeater-style group with reflective lyrics and minor-scale riffs. The record is framed by Tanner Swift's storybook lyrics, although none relate to his name's unfortunate similarity with a certain blonde pop artist. The tracks are considerably varied; opener "Sorrow and Regret" leans hard and fast, while "Whiskey and Smoke" quietly builds as Swift ducks and weaves between palm-muted chords. It's a solid record, to be sure, but you can judge for yourself, as the band and label have already made it available free in a few places.