Shields Up - Shields Up

This five-piece hardcore troupe, hailing from Edinburgh, have certainly hit the ground running. Formed in the first half of 2009, they recorded this debut album in their home studio a mere matter of weeks later, thanks to an intense practice and writing schedule. Points for the pro-active disposition. Of course, as with so many products of the home-studio revolution, it lacks the power of proper production, but in fairness its thinner sound is oddly reminiscent of some of the Washington DC hardcore scene's output in the late 80s and does lend a nostalgic charm. Likewise, the music is relatively unevolved, opting for a direct hardcore approach, largely abandoned since the post-hardcore and metalcore scenes exploded, especially that infamous mono-pitch vocal. However, the considerable instrumental competence on show clearly demonstrates potential for success in the future. Hardcore devotees lamenting some of the genre's pretentious tangents should take comfort in this.