Washington based Pop Punk stalwarts MxPx (their name being a modified form of their previous moniker, Magnified Plaid) have been stompin' and rompin' around the scene now for a decade…long before it was cool or trendy to do so. Their latest, “Ten Years And Running” [Tooth & Nail Records], is a compilation of historical cuts. …

The second release by Nonpoint, titled “Development” [MCA Records], is a winner. Continuing solidly in their own, unique style, they've gotten slightly more melodic without losing any of their edge. Nonpoint mixes the jagged and the melodic aspects of their sound into a beautiful, snarling roar. The Nonpoint method is an extremely melodic form of …

When it comes to sheer, soul-crushing brutality few can equal the force of Incantation. Their latest slab, “Blasphemy” [Necropolis Records], continues this great tradition of sonic oppression. Incantation is the sound of pure, apocalyptic oblivion. The Incantation sound is as forward as it gets-bestial Blackened Brutal Death Metal that is absolutely massive. Guttural growls crown …

Like it gory? How about brutal as well? Then the Impaled is just the bloody fix you've been craving. Their new opus, “Mondo Medicale” [Necropolis Records], is a splatter-gore freak's dead dream. It's Death Metal for the guts-'n'-grooves crew. Chunky, crushing rhythms pound with a dull vibrancy that has a bludgeoning charm. The vocals are …

The best art is born of sorrow and/or rage. Seether (formerly known as Saron Gas) is a South African band that draws deeply, and brilliantly, from this well. Their American debut, “Disclaimer” [Wind-Up Records], is one of the best of the year. Displaying a virulent and explosive sound that fuses Aggro and Moodcore Metal into …