Like Rats “s/t” 7”

This self-titled effort is the second EP from Chicago, IL's Like Rats (released by Cosmic Debris), and it tears through five tracks of viciously aggressive hardcore in about 13 minutes. It's an interesting run, too, as their approach is certainly more diverse than most bands of this general nature. Apparently they're heavily influenced by Celtic Frost, and you can definitely hear some of that in the pounding surges of midpaced riffs that pop up throughout the compositions. And then there are the vocals, which are so acerbic and in your face that they really possess somewhat of a black metal-esque snarl. So, if you can imagine a frantic, blasting form of hardcore that has a powerviolence sort of undercurrent thanks to the Celtic Frost worship, and also flirts with touches of black metal and Swedish-tinged D-beat... the result would be pretty damn close to Like Rats. The recording's very effective as well, with a balanced mix that keeps things sounding nice and crisp without sacrificing a certain degree of harsh bite. What's not to like? Here's a little taste of what to expect:

Like Rats "Hunger"

The 7" is limited to just 300 copies at $5 apiece, but the band is also offering a "pay what you want" digital download (as well as a free download option if you want to be a cheap bastard). If you like what you hear I encourage you to at least throw a couple of bucks the band's way...

Get It

Like Rats (7"/mp3)
Cosmic Debris (7")