Reviewed by Ian Webber

Boasting the pedigree of founding member Marcel Munlz, the guitarist from Dynasty, this debut from the LA-based hardcore outfit was long awaited. It kicks off with punk edged venom and in-your-face driving bass lines. A feature of this six piece outfit is the way they manage to switch effortlessly between lumbering riffs and a bass rumble to circle-pit frenzy on the flip of a beat all with the feel of a classic hardcore act. "Death Defeaters" is a prime example with its almost soporific rhythm and acidic vocal trade off. "Brothers", on the other hand, is a more progressive track with a much fuller sound. Throughout 'Blood Diamonds' the guitars mix with pinpoint accuracy above booming breakdowns and gang vocals. "Hard Times", probably the best track on the album, mixes all these elements together in a brief one and a half minute outburst. Dangerous Minds are lyrically forthright and bold, but what sets this recording out from others is its quality, which is both sharp whilst retaining a raw edge. I also appreciated the moments when a richer sound was used as displayed in the bonus track, "Party Step", which includes some metal styling with its biting guitars. Whilst there is nothing particularly distinctive about Dangerous Minds, this is one album that fans of classic hardcore will enjoy.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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