Detroit's very own Forge have steadily built a name for themselves locally receiving more awards than I've had school dinners. Having been on the scene since 1996, these demos follow on from the most recent effort, Trials (1999). With an unhealthy fascination for science fiction this three piece certainly have the ability to stand out.

Heavy yet melodic, a cliche, but one which for them is literally true. A sound akin to Sick Of It All with the lacerating riffs of Helmet makes for an interesting proposition and with first song 'One Swift Motion' they hit the ground running (cliche #2) with an in your face hardcore drum style that dictates the pace throughout. If catchy choruses with big hooks are your thing you won't be disappointed. The music has a certain 'feel good factor' to it thanks no less to the wise words coming from Aaron Greene who has a distinctive voice that sounds like he's smoked a few cigarettes in his time. When his vocals are pushed he even sounds a bit like Ozzy Osbourne yet he could still work on his vocals on songs like 'Stickman' although the floors in his delievery do add a rawness to it all.

For the most part, Forge occupy the middle ground. Never quite losing control of themselves, it's as if they have an imaginary ceiling on it all. Ultimately? Well, Forge certainly have the talent to forge a large fan base (notice the pun?) but whether they can find there place in the current rock climate is the big test. Sci-fi Metal anyone?