WROOOAAAAAAAAAARGH.

Do I have your attention? OK. Let me introduce you to: Maypole

Formed in 1994, Maypole sometimes used to be considered as a ‘lazy band’. The production was on a low level. Well, at least till their debut Contradictions in 2001. After that, they became a well known band in the hardcore scene. I guess they decided to write more songs, and write faster, and with quality.

And now, 2003, Burning In Water, Drowning In Flames; a kingly CD. Old school hardcore that can match with the best bands in the genre. It has got it all. It has the energy this kind of music needs. It has quality lyrics (The title of this album is taken from a novel of Charles Bukowski). They deal with friendship, personal stuff and believing in your own capabilities. It has emotions as well as a good production.

What can I say about the music? They sure know how to play. The music has influences from Pennywise, Good Riddance, Give up The Ghost and sometimes I hear some Backfire! riffs. It contains a lot of fast riffs, fast drums, but also sometimes superb breakdowns (not like hatebreed, but you can compare them to Biohazard).

The CD breathes an atmosphere of friendship, family and courage. It’s an optimistic album, the production adds only to that. It’s a down-to-earth production, done by Tony Block and the band members themselves.

Summary: A perfect, amazing old school hardcore CD. I wonder if the new Give Up The Ghost can tip this.

Favourite tracks: “Take It Away, Golden Shell”, “Soap Opera Scene”, the short “Hold With The Hare”.