CoC : Naiad - Hardcore Emotion : Review

Naiad - _Hardcore Emotion_
(Good Life Recordings, 2003)
by: Xander Hoose (9 out of 10)

It's stunning to realize we're dealing with a Japanese band here. Kyoto's Naiad makes a very American-ized form of hardcore that easily outranks most of its competitors in originality, musicianship and production. Compared mostly to legendary Shai Hulud, the five songs on this MCD are a prime example of how high the standard is nowadays for bands in this genre. Having to mix a straightforward way of expressing your message with effective style breaks in-between as well as during the songs themselves is a hard task; one in which many bands fail miserably. Naiad proves to have the immaculate timing to give it a natural flow, alternating harsh aggression with melodic instrumental relief. I can't wait to see a full-length release of these guys; _Hardcore Emotion_ is an MCD you shouldn't skip this year.

Contact: http://naiad01.tripod.co.jp

(article published 10/8/2003)