Samiam
Astray
Hopeless
A good 10 years since their first self-titled full length, Samiam is still a band who is probably inspiring more bands than anyone realizes. Moody and dark at times, energetic and almost angry on the hardcore edge at times, but keeping this new release steady between the lines with tight and melodic songs. Sometimes the vocals can stretch and scratch, making me think of Lemmy doing a number with the Get Up Kids, but not often. There is that emocore edge on the guitar at times, but it’s more driving, less mournful. Very close to being pop punk at times, but the attitude keeps it from being too pop. Mature but youthful. Hooks that stick and songs that shine like the summer you never want to end.
Hopeless Records, P.O. Box 7495, Van Nuys, CA 91409-7495; http://www.hopelessrecords.com
