CD REVIEW: HARDCORE SUPERSTAR – HCSS

Label: Gain Music Entertainment

Release Date: April 21, 2015

Rating: 8.5/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

The music of Hardcore Superstar fits into so many genres of rock.  The latest release, HCSS is no different.  “Don’t Mean Shit” opens with a cool punk riff and morphs into a rocker that includes guitar work that matches the attitude of the lyrics, vocals, and tempo.  This rockers sets the disc off on the right foot and the fun only increases from here.  “Party ‘Til I’m Gone” gets the rock vibe cranked up, with tones and riffs that link this track to the previous song sonically, while dropping the punk edge.  “Off With Their Heads” kicks off featuring a killer bass line that backs up the vocals.  Once the guitars and drum join the fray, the chorus is charging ahead full steam.  “The Ocean” brings the familiar punk rock feel back to the table, mixing in  a different lead vocal style than most of the other songs.  “Growing Old” takes a while to get going and grab your attention, but the straight-ahead rock drops and soon the bass, drums, and guitars are inviting you into this moment of rock, especially during the bridge.

“The Cemetery” is moodier track that brings a chugging vibe and heavier bottom end than some of the other tracks.  The cadence of the track is straight forward rock, but the chorus gives the song a catchy moment.  “Fly” is one of songs that takes the road less traveled.  The vibe is heavy and shoegazer style rock, while keeping a lighter texture to the guitar for the most part.  The chorus is very rhythmic and gets the head banging.  “Touch The Sky” has a killer feel to it that grows from the first note to the last.  The guitar work on this song is eclipsed only by the vocals, that are unlike anything else on the disc, but fits right in on this collection.  “Glue” brings together different textures, tones, and feels to form a cohesive track that demonstrates how strong the players are individually and collectively.  The anthemic feel of the chorus adds depth to the track and disc.  Disc closer “Messed Up For Sure” has a heavy sound, compliments of the rhythm section, especially the heavy handed bass playing.  The groove of this track gets the foot tapping and the head banging – better not try to work out to this one… might push yourself a little too hard!!!

TRACKLIST: Don’t Mean Shit – Party ‘Til I’m Gone – The Cemetery – Off With Their Heads – Fly – The Ocean – Touch The Sky – Growing Old – Glue – Messed Up For Sure

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Category: CD Reviews