Compelling rhythms, melodic rock, and intense vocals make for a vibrant and dynamic combination on Headstrong's strong and varied debut. Some tunes are in line with what Incubus and Tantric are up to, but this Canadian fou... more »rsome (formerly known as Bomb 32) possess layers of melody combined and a socio-political perspective that should grab fans of Rage Against the Machine and other lovers of heady heaviness. Rap-leaning vocalist Matt Kinna changes it up as the band kicks into aggro overdrive. The entreaty "Do What You Feel Like" boasts complex, punk-like aggression that contrasts with moodier moments such as "I Am for Real." The combination of intense, rap- and metal-fueled energy and supple, sonorous sounds makes the dozen compelling offerings here at once timely and timeless. --Katherine Turman« less
Compelling rhythms, melodic rock, and intense vocals make for a vibrant and dynamic combination on Headstrong's strong and varied debut. Some tunes are in line with what Incubus and Tantric are up to, but this Canadian foursome (formerly known as Bomb 32) possess layers of melody combined and a socio-political perspective that should grab fans of Rage Against the Machine and other lovers of heady heaviness. Rap-leaning vocalist Matt Kinna changes it up as the band kicks into aggro overdrive. The entreaty "Do What You Feel Like" boasts complex, punk-like aggression that contrasts with moodier moments such as "I Am for Real." The combination of intense, rap- and metal-fueled energy and supple, sonorous sounds makes the dozen compelling offerings here at once timely and timeless. --Katherine Turman
"Once in awhile a band drops a debut album that stands the test of time to become a classic and this looks like it might be one of those. I head read a decent amount about the band (thanks Janson!!) and decided to pick up the album after only hearing Adriana....I was completely blown away. Not since Rage's debut album have I heard a debut loaded with such intense and intelligent music as Headstrong's. Never ever sounding the same throughout the album, it runs a gamut of multiple genres and influences. One can hear some Rage in there,Matt's rap like vocals remind me of Zach and so do his screams but he also reminds me a bit of Neil Fallon from Clutch at times. The music is straight forward rock with great song structures that never get old or repetitive and everyone in the band sounds like a master of their instrument. A far cry from most nu-metal or nu-rock releases, Headstrong will surely please those who are looking for something original AND way above standard in terms of quality and replay value. Highest reccomendation."
It's a damn shame...
Nick | Round Rock, TX United States | 03/10/2004
(5 out of 5 stars)
"You know: with wiltering rap-rock whatever the hell you want to call it bands this one was actually unique and had the ability to keep ground. It had all the proper ingredients for success; great ingenuetive, socio-political lyrcis, some kick ass jams and a badass singer. With the passion of Rage Against the Machine the intensity of Snot and sarcasm of Faith no More this band surprised the hell out of me. I usually HATE "nu-metal" acts, but this cd is great from start to finish and is a euphoric listen in a way. Well, the time has come and after one release this band is gone. This cd will be in my collection forever but it makes one wonder what this band would have accomplished had they continued. They come from an increasing scene right now: CANADA! Of all places; the North has nurtured 36crazyfists, Boysnightout and Grade and now this lovely band. I never got the pleasure to see them which is a major let-down considering that this band is probably the best band at what it does right now (or back then.). All the songs could be singles, even if this scene is dying this band was tight and though you may not know anything past the crappy song "Headstrong" this band should not go unnoticed; they deserve some respect for their short-lived career. Of course it will be that the members of this band will most likely continue in musical ways but this band is truly unique and THIS band will most likely never be again. RIP."
A symphony with a mix!
Eric | Georgetown, TX | 10/06/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As loud as Snot, as funky as Jimmie's Chicken Shack, yet only as half as political as RATM. Put all those bands in a blender, and hit FRAPEE'! "Adriana", the first single as most people know, is a perfect, silky, funky, loud, debut. When I purchased this monstrosity, "Build" made "Adriana" sound even better. What a build up! I missed a chance to see these guys live at Emo's in Austin, TX. But, I'm pretty sure they've captured their live essence on the cd. Can't wait for their second album. It had better be here soon."
Finally Some New Rap/Nu- Metal
cobra97snake | Michigan | 03/27/2002
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Im sorry but im a big fan of rap-metal.... Maybe it's because it's hard to find good rap metal these days. Hed pe and downset can't make a new album every 4 months. This cd is great, it's got the rap, the screaming, the melodies, everything to make you happy. I really like the rap voice he has. Not too many people are gifted with it(vanilla ice, other rap/metal poser bands). But the people that are Limp Bizkit(i guess). The others that have a great voice to rap is Nullset(even though they got a new singer) Downset, Taproot. I recommend this cd to anyone into the incubus/hoobastank, or Taproot/Limp Bizkit style."