Forfeit “The Lower Depths” LP

Among the latest from Reaper Records is the debut full-length from Syracuse, NY's Forfeit. I never got around to checking out their "Visions" EP 'cause I suck at keeping up with things, but this album cranks out 11 tracks in about 21 minutes and is just the kind of high-quality metallic hardcore you'd expect from the Reaper label. You could certainly argue that 21 minutes isn't exactly a "full-length" level running time, but... who really gives a shit anymore? You're far less likely to get bored when things are kept more focused and compact like this! The base is a solid combination of fast-paced power chords with a hint of old school flavor and chugging midpaced breaks with a tactful sense of groove, but the vocals have just a touch more of a gruffness to 'em that starts to help the band stand out—in addition to a few unexpectedly quirky riffs that start pushing the boundaries just a touch. The recording's perhaps a little on the dry side, but that doesn't bother me at all, and actually works in the favor of the killer bass tone that pummels away in the center of the mix throughout and adds that "oomph" that I love. What more is there to say? It's pretty straightforward, no nonsense hardcore that's not one-sided and generic. Here's a little taste:

Forfeit "Burnt Earth"

I've seen mention of this release being available on LP and CD, but the CD's aren't out there for sale anywhere, and I've been told by at least one person that it's not actually going to be released on CD, so I'm not really sure what the deal is there. Either way, vinyl junkies can get their fix on colored wax, and the material's available digitally through the major outlets as well...

Get It

Reaper Records (red vinyl)
Reaper Records (white vinyl)
Interpunk (LP)
RevHQ (LP)
Amazon.com (mp3)
eMusic (mp3)
iTunes (mp3)