Artist - Suicide City
Album - Not My Year
Label - Independent (2005 EP)
Reviewer - Marc Halverson
I remember when I first read that Billy Graziadei (Biohazard, Endrah) and Jennifer Arroyo (ex-Kittie) were putting together a new band, I was very curious to hear what they sounded like. Then, you add members from Groovenics and Ghost Fight, and you have quite a unique and solid line-up. “Not My Year” is a beautiful blend of Post- Hardcore/Metal/Rock/Punk/Goth that easily sets itself from most of the albums being released this year.
First, each member brings influences from each of their respective bands but they manage to put together a formula and sound that is very effective and original. ‘F*** Your Dreams’ is a fast track with a catchy chorus that sets the tone for the EP. Next, ‘Give Me Your Pity’ opens with a heavy hitting riff and brutal vocals that are perfectly alternated by Singer Karl Bernholtz and Billy Graziadei. ‘Undone’ and ‘Marching Backwards’ are two of the strongest tracks with very catchy chorus’ that showcase Karl (singer) distinct vocal style, followed by Billy’s classic screams which people have become accustomed to over the years. ‘Diemonds’ brings the EP to a close with intense guitars/vocals and tight drumming executed by Dan Lamagna. It leaves the listener wanting to hear more, and you definitely can create a mental picture of the energy and intensity Suicide City bring when playing live.
Suicide City is an up and coming band from the underground that have years of experience and longevity under their belts based on their previous work and bands. Their unique and dynamic sound can only continue to build in the underground but at the same time, stay true to their roots and separate themselves from the rest. Pick up a copy of “Not My Year” and find out why Suicide City is quickly spreading through the underground.
