Open Fire! - Slaves EP [2009]

Genre: Hardcore/Melodic Hardcore
Label: Unsigned
URL: http://www.myspace.com/openfirewa
Country: Washington, USA
Note: By band request

After releasing one full length and one split with Passing In Dreams, Open Fire! have released their third album, Slaves.

Having listened to their first album and full-length Built To Abandon before, the new sound of Slaves comes as quite the surprise. While BTA is what you would call a true beatdown hardcore record, Slaves have gone more to the melodic hardcore style. In no way is this a negative thing in my opinion, because I find melodic hardcore one of the most appealing genres of all times.
Although heavier than most other melodic hardcore bands in terms of guitar play, you still find that little special melodic-defining picking in the verses commonly used by similar bands. Heavy breakdowns, band chanting, even clean vocals is experienced in this change-of-pace follow-up.

To find something to rant about on this record: only three tracks! I know it's an EP, but I want to hear more. Other than that this record is absolutely awesome if you're into hardcore. With almost 10,000 tracks played at last.fm at the time of writing, it's only a matter of time before that number is ten times higher.

Best track: Faith-Healer/Death-Dealer
Score: 8/10