Compilation CD's are for the most part a mixed bag, whether they be lopsided to one genre or one artist's sound they usually never seem to get it right, here on the other hand is a CD that actually gives a good showcase on the scene taking bands from throughout America instead of focusing on just one location and assembles them into an cohesive order. From the now rare track "Orange Drive Palms" by the infamous Dreamworks Records recording artists Papa Roach and the winding rock n roll contribution from the ever astounding Incubus siblings VENT's of the track "One Small Choice" too the voracious assault of Illinois's Five Pointe 0 with their track "King Of The Hill" this CD has a wealth of bands and is an essential sampler of the groups that lay in wait to take over when the torch is passed.. Experimental reggae stylings of Thunder Chicken, Hectic aggrocore from Loco Tribe the intense melodic ability of Alien Ant Farm as well as the Bakerfield's own Korn reminiscent emotional sucker punch Juice are all highlights on this release and do well to keep this album progressing and at the same time give it more appeal to the average indie consumer. It's impressive to see Vertigo Productions mix big names in the independent scene with relatively unknowns and assemble it well. If you are looking for new music and are tired of downloading mp3's of bands that don't cut the mustard, then be sure to pick up this gem of a disc, with a professional layout, contact info on all bands which is an extreme plus as well as a handful of impressive tracks you are guaranteed to find at least one new favorite band on this great release. Vertigo Productions bucks the trend in a world where compilations become label showcases, opportunities for bands that are friends of the financier or the simple reason of being in it for the money. Putting together an honest in depth compilation is no easy task and it's something Vertigo has done with ease, if you want to know where the face of indie music is today then pick this disc up post haste.
- wookubus

(4.5 / 5)