REVIEW: CaliAlive.com

Straight out of the port city of Baltimore, Maryland comes the vicious monster known as Trapped Under Ice. Obvious influences from New York powerhouses Breakdown and Crown of Thorns, the city of Baltimore quickly inherits one of the most brutal outfits to come out of the b-more area in recent memory. In 2007, Trapped Under Ice released a five song demo , which was later released as an EP on a label named Flatspot Records. This EP soon caught the attention of many in the hardcore community. Soon there after, Reaper Records heard the tracks and immediately began working out a deal to record the new onslaught that is known as the "Stay Cold" EP.

Trapped Under Ice have gained a huge amount of recognition in the past year or so due to the band enlightening their NYHC fan base to a more sweet and finesse sound that they posses. Musically very heavy, and in place are tighter, more unique jams than their previous five song demo effort that was released in 2007. Relentless music with potent guitar work shine throughout this record from beginning to end. The vocals are well-paced and the vocalist has a distinct voice which complements his array of delivery.

Arguably, "Stay Cold" has sent shock waves through the country since it's release on May 6th. One of those records that clocks in under ten minutes, leaving you wanting more of the ultimate riffage that Trapped Under Ice display. This is the way hardcore is meant to be played. Pissed off, brutal and devastating all in one blow. The band also displays a love for the road, already completing a successful tour with friends in Trash Talk. Stand out tracks on this 7" are as followed: Skeleton Heads, Street Lights and Between the Sheets. The only issue noticeable in this EP is the choice to end with the closer of "Between the Sheets." "Skeleton Heads," with it's hard hitting "Nishinga Motherfucker" break would of been the icing on the cake and made for a better closer to the record. Other than that, this album is relentless from start to finish and should content for best EP of the year. If your a fan of straight up old school hardcore, this is a sweet piece of wax to add to the collection.

For Fans Of: Breakdown, Crown of Thorns, Integrity.

Rating: 5/5