Hundredth
When Will We Surrender

This review is dedicated to all those who, in the hardcore field, have decidedly lost their way after some rather uninspiring releases ("Symptoms and Cure") or well below average ("Homesick"), not to mention real disasters ("Returners") and who clearly need something new to focus on.

Discovered by chance through a very interesting interview on groovebox.it (subliminal advertising!), Hundredth is a very young American band devoted to a modern Hardcore not strictly defined, almost describable in Rock terms (Poison The Well, It Prevails being major influences), and they have so far released only one album, "When Will We Surrender", released under one of the many (so many) unknown labels specializing in the genre, which is projected to undoubtedly become the best LP of the year regarding this genre, and more. Inspired melodies, powerful breakdowns, a perfect rhythm section, aggressive yet engaging vocals: by mixing elements that are nonetheless overused, the group manages the "miracle" of standing out in the mass of today's Hardcore scene thanks to a sincerity and personality decidedly above average, in a balance between the old and the new that is remarkably notable for an up-and-coming band. Seasoned with tasteful collaborations (My Children My Bride, It Prevails, The Ghost Inside, Hatebreed to name a few) and highly valid lyrics mainly dealing with spiritual themes (the band's name relates to the theory of the 100th monkey, but don't expect an Underoath album) and exceptional production, "When Will We Surrender" is capable of delivering intense emotions, lasting and that transcend the genre's limits, featuring impactful songs ("Willows") as well as evocative instrumental tracks ("Fade"), beautiful rock excursions ("Greater") combined with an attitude perfectly in line with the inherently present "Old school" spirit ("Desolate"), which could easily be appreciated by both regular listeners of Comeback Kid, Sick Of It All & company, as well as those with more varied tastes (Alexisonfire) if not "mainstream", and given that these two souls of the album coexist perfectly without falling into banality or common clichés (check out the beautiful video clip of "Desolate"), it's no small feat.

A great Hardcore album, but also a great Rock album, which might not be everyone's cup of tea, but will certainly surprise, and not just a little, those who are used to associating this genre with a worrying stylistic stagnation. Discounting the usual couple of slightly less inspired songs, one can only speak about an album that makes a difference, if not even of a masterpiece, read the lyrics of "Greater" and you'll understand why.

"My life once miserable, is now, immeasurable..."