Reviewed by Jon Cooper

If you were the kind of person who, around the turn of the century, tuned religiously into MTV2 in order to catch the latest nu-metal sensations, you'll love 'The Distant End' by Tony On Fire, the brainchild of Houston-based Tony Casella. Gritty, confident vocals sit perfectly atop a grungy mix of acoustic and down-tuned electric guitars, employed in the classic Puddle-Of-Mudd-meets-Nickelback "time for the loud chorus" dynamic, and are flavoured with cleverly layered harmonies that recall Alice In Chains (according to other reviews, Casella has in fact opened for former Chains guitarist Jerry Cantrell). Tracks like "Solace" also have a Latin vibe that give a nod in the direction of P.O.D.'s sunnier musical passages. Unfortunately, some of the stodginess that dragged down those particular bands has found a new home in Casella's arranging. The songwriting is predictable, with plenty of "I reckon he's gonna step on a distortion pedal in three..two..one.."' moments, and the lyrical content often verges on the kind of obliquely religious drivel that Creed used to churn out. Still, it's far from being a disposable release; indeed, if I'd heard this record 15 years ago I'd have thought it the best thing since sliced bread - or at least since Third Day.

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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