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By JEFF MAKI
Evergreen Terrace on what it takes to be a “Wolfbiker”:
“In a world full of faceless sheep, human waste, and nine-to-five zombies it’s important to remember that you are the one that is in charge of your life. You are capable of anything and everything that you want to do. Don't sell yourself short. Don't conform. Don't settle. BUT MOSTLY--Don't let anyone tell you how to live your life.”
This rebellious, take-charge philosophy comes in the form of infectious choruses, hardcore punk and dirty metal riffs on Evergreen Terrace's new release, Wolfbiker, a spirited album for skate punks and metalheads alike. It's evident that the band is as influenced by Bad Religion as much as it is by Shadows Fall. Hardcore anthems like “High Tide or No Tide” and “Chaney Can't Quite Riff Like Helmet's Page Hamilton” (named for the band's guitarist/vocalist Craig Chaney) burn with just as much attitude as aggression and melody. But really, who can riff like that?
A gang vocal of “We are the wicked that walk these city streets!” opens “To the First Baptist Church of Jacksonville,” the purest, most predictable hardcore song included here. Other than this song and some select parts, the band strays away from the norm when it comes to hardcore. The goofy gang vocals and tough guy sing-alongs, excessive breakdowns and such are kept to a minimum. To put it simply, this is hardcore for people who don't like hardcore. “The Damned” is another standout, closing the album with its best guitar work.
Even if Wolfbiker isn't the most original recording, I admire the all-out spirit of Evergreen Terrace. Wolfbiker is memorable and demands repeated listening. Their diverse style has allowed them to tour with bands like As I Lay Dying, Norma Jean and on Sounds of the Underground. The fan-base should only grow larger with this album.
And yeah, Evergreen Terrace is the name of the street on The Simpsons and is supposedly where the band drew their name from.
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