Reviewed by Alex Figgis

First, there was Tooth & Nail; then came BEC; now welcome Solid State into the fold of the ever expanding list of labels started up by American entrepreneur Brandon Ebel. In order to cater for the harder end of the modern alternative music scene, Solid State was established only a few years ago, but has since expanded to accommodate some of the most cutting edge hard music of all time. This Is Solid State...' covers ground both old and new, exposing a number of new and up and coming bands who think nothing of setting hard hitting songs of faith to equally harsh musical scores. Also included are four previously unreleased songs, "Enthroned '98" (Living Sacrifice), "Outside Looking In" (Stretch Arm String), "Halo Of Winter" (Embodiment) and "A Knife In The Dark" (Warlord). Standout cuts include the aforementioned Living Sacrifice reworking of "Enthroned" and the hardcore fused punk sensibilities of "Outside Looking In" by Stretch Arm Strong; "Celestial Completion", a technical masterpiece by Extol; and Overcome's "When Beauty Dies", an intense slab of alternative hard­core. For the ultimate try before you buy, This Is Solid State Vol 1' proves to be indispensable.

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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