xBishopx

Every once and a while you just need some bro-down. In those instances, you can’t really go wrong with xBishopx, who have written and recorded one of the most concise, to-the-point metalcore records in recent memory. With lyrics strictly revolving around straightedge, sell-outs and overcoming adversity, the group are laying down the law in the most obnoxious way possible, complete with lines such as "Fuck your drugs, fuck your life, fuck everything you think you know” and an abundance of crew vocals and predictable mosh parts. Depending on your perspective, this could be a good or a bad thing. Vocalist Mean Pete (also of label-mates Remembering Never) is one of the best in the business, with a full bodied, low-end scream that oozes conviction and hostility. At 28 minutes, the record has also effectively beaten its point in and drawn to a close before the listener can find their voice to complain. Unfortunately, as with the majority of traditional hardcore influenced efforts, there isn’t much in the way of diversity, although one should expect as much. The inscription on the CD inlay reads "South Florida straightedge”. Take it or leave it, they probably couldn’t care less what you think anyway.