Ire Works (Clear Blue Vinyl)

While fusing too many styles in hardcore can lead to confusing results (see Avenged Sevenfold's Self-Titled Release), the added instruments and genre switching enhance the result rather than acting as embellishing distractions. Violins, piano and trumpets fit perfectly into the mix, and the band's willingness to take risks results in stunning artistic achievements rather than trite attempts to cross genres just to appear smarter. The album features vocalist Dimitri Minakakis as well as Mastodon guitarist Brent Hinds, but the most notable member is drummer Gil Sharone, who has proven himself an expert at finding new members following the departure of founding member Chris Penny to Coheed And Cambria. Undoubtedly, this act added fury to the heavier compositions. "82588", "Fix Your Face" and "Party Smasher" are as angry and manic as their heaviest early work; conversely, the melodic hooks and falsetto of "Black Bubblegum" and the watery atmospherics of "Mouth Of Ghosts" balance the album perfectly. It can be both unapproachable and frightening at the same time, but in a genre oversaturated with formulaic bands, Ire Works really stands out. If DEP aren't cautious and continue down this innovative path, they could very well be considered Radiohead in metalcore.