I’ve already heard a lot of people talking about Mindstab. By the time I put the album Say Anything… into my cd-player I only knew they’re from Belgium. This album is released by Seamiew Records who are also responsible for the Dreadlock Pussy (it’s their label), Gazzoleen and End Of April releases so far. Don’t expect the catchiness you know from Gazzoleen, or the hip-hop samples of Dreadlock Pussy. Instead expect straightforward metalcore with intense vocals.

After releasing a 5-track demo on Polar Bears/Roughtrade and a debut album on Creeptown/Goodlife, Seamiew Records signed this talented band and they sure haven’t regretted it! Mindstab is a diverse band combining many influences from hardcore and metal into a coherent sound that got them touring with bands like Liar, Length Of Time, Papa Roach and Slipknot. A lot of different bands in just one sentence, but it helps me a bit to describe this band as they cover such diverse types of rock music.

The hardcore guitar riffs of both Francis and Niek and the interacting between the two vocalists (Bjorn and Francis) alternating between melodic singing and emotional screams are the strongest elements of the band. This however doesn’t mean that the other members are any less! The only point of discussion is that the guitar riffs are mixed too much into the front, but that is countered by the fact that this is a low budget recording.

Altogether Say Anything... is surely a great album that fans of any of the aforementioned bands need to add to their collection. If you see this album somewhere in your local record store please take some time to listen to it, because it’s definitely worth it.