Helping you back to work vol. 4 features 19 tracks of what I would like to say showcases the best of the underground. Sadly many of the bands simply don't cut it with me. Many of the younger newer bands suffer from poor production or simply need to hone their song writing skills. However, its good to see that Lockjaw Records are willing to pluck bands from a grass roots level and give them some exposure. Thankfully there is a lot of good and promising talent on this compilation. Turmoil have been around for at least 7 years, and, upon the news that they are to split, their track 'Playing Dead' only serves as a reminder of how much they will be missed. I would strongly recommend you check out their latest album 'The Process Of', kids from both metal and hardcore standpoints will dig this. Vacant Stare are certainly a god send. Whilst not the most original of bands (slipknot and machine head come to mind) they still manage to capture your attention. The band are as yet unsigned but if their 3 track demo is anything to go by, this will soon change. Tribute To Nothing are like a shining light in the UK underground scene. Having started their own label, Lockjaw Records, they have proceeded to help many a band through compilations such as this. On this, their 4th compilation, they have included their own track 'Understand'. We are reminded that not only are they the hardest working band, they are also one of the best and quite frankly its criminal that they have remained underground so long. Cavity show promise with 'Get Well Soon'. Poor production aside the band manage to create some serious noise as the singer deftly switches between singing and shouting. Rabes Caste from Jerusalem, Israel are one of the surprise bands on this compilation. Musically they come across as pissed off and full of anger. The guitars sound solid and thick but they are slightly let down by the muffled and hard to hear vocals. Nonetheless they are certainly ones to watch. Earthtone 9 should need no introduction. Quite simply they are the best UK metal band right now. If you haven't checked them out by now you should be kicking yourself. Other bands who deserve mention include Earshot with their obvious vocal talent coupled with good song writing. Stegel and their song 'Hive', which, although a little messy shows huge potential, and I'm hearing good things about their new material. All in all, this has opened my eyes to a lot of bands. Some bad, some good but I'm sure I'll be hearing more of them in the coming years. You should be too.
(3.5 / 5)