New Music: National Sunday Law - Festival of the Horned God

Album Score: 8/10

It's astounding how often mediocre bands consistently become huge while far more interesting artists remain in the shadows. Sure, there are the heavyweights of progressive metal like Tool and Mastodon, but the vast majority of bright ideas aren’t coming soon to a music store near you. Unfortunately, National Sunday Law’s work has so far fallen into that vast majority. The band’s 2012 EP Festival of the Horned God arrives too late for most “Best of…” lists, but it’s certainly one of the more pleasant surprises of the late year for fans of sludge and post-metal.

New Music: Halestorm - The Strange Case Of...

Album Score: 7.5/10

They’re in a largely stale genre. It took them seven years to land a deal with a major label. Their singer writes lyrics about failed relationships, rock and roll, and sex. They’re one of the more exciting rising rocks bands you’re likely to hear.

Huh?
Halestorm are a band that’s been waiting to explode for years now, and their high-octane live show and all-world lead singer have finally pushed them to the fore of US hard rock. The band’s primary appeal lies in their not-so-secret weapon by the name of Lzzy Hale, whose Joan Jett-attitude and four-octave focal range ensure that you won’t confuse Halestorm with any other band. Her supporting cast also happens to be excellent, as Joe Hottinger (lead guitar), Josh Smith (bass), and her brother Arejay (drums) show their solid chops and continue to improve with each album.