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I've been listening to The Young And The Useless for almost a year now; a little while before releasing their first full length (reviewed here) was released on Thorp Records. For a debut, "A Smile Is No Good For Me" was an excellent release, but tended to seem a bit unfocused. The band members themselves revealed a bit of disappointment in some of the tracks, but this time around, I see no reason for dissatisfaction. The band's latest self-titled EP is a great progression from their last effort, displaying a much more focused band, that has definitely come into their own.
As the most anticipated recent Thorp Records release, I was more than giddy when I discovered this one in the mail. My high hopes were thoroughly exceeded within the first thirty seconds of the first track, "I'd Like To Think That I'm Still Immature," as the band manages to encompass their hardcore roots, as well as further metallic elements, most notable being the rumbling double kicks to the bass drum. Although the band is now much more focused, they have also varied up the music quite a bit, through more melodic passages and innovative song structures. Still held in high regard are gang-vocals and beefy guitars, and an even more intense vocal performance. Vocalist CJ is one of the best in the business; he screams with such a raw, sincere sound that is so benificial among emotionally tinged bands. The latest recording of "Breaking, One Beat At A Time" is, yes, much more intense than the original, while the oddball on this disc, "On The Way To Tetnus," manages to sound something like the All American Rejects for a minute or so. Definitely unexpected, yet wonderfully infectious.
The Young And The Useless will probably gain well-deserved recognition when this album is available to the masses. I mean, this band managed to cover a Journey song ("Anyway You Want It"), and make it sound decent. I can't say enough about this band, and anyone who enjoyed their previous full-length would be a fool to miss this album. For the rest of hardcore listeners, especially those with some pent up rage, do not ignore The Young And The Useless. Lyric of the day: "I could care less if you can't stand the sound of my voice. I'll still scream at the top of my lungs."
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