THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA - FLOWERS (Solid State Records)

The fact that the band introduced their ninth full length effort with a cinematic short film in That Same Place Where The Flowers Never Grow, should offer some indication of just how ambitious The Devil Wears Prada were for this release. Confronting existentialism and the human experience with emotive, convincing performances, TDWP assert their veteran songwriting strength with unique perspective to craft some powerful songs. From warm melody to crashing crescendos, Flowers skips the cheap emotional ploys to deliver something personal and poignant. 

RAW BRIGADE - 100% (Flatspot Records)

Colombia meets NYHC in the form of highly regarded exports, Raw Brigade. On the brink of becoming hardcore's next global ambassadors, 100%, emphasizes the band's reverence for the greats that have paved the way while establishing their own voice. Combining old school hardcore and a confrontational stance, the band's relentless cadence and durable delivery make 100% an album indicative of health of hardcore. Recorded in both English and Spanish to underscore the band's Colombian heritage, expect Raw Brigade to make huge strides with this album. 

THE HUNNA - BLUE TRANSITIONS (FLG)

Rock trio The Hunna have returned after three years with their first EP in their decade long career with the aptly titled Blue Transitions. While "clouds' remains the standout track on the five-song collection, the sense of melancholy that drives the release results in a very competent, confident showing of melody. Cuts like 'hide & seek" and the title are among the shining example of how The Hunna creates dramatics with moments of big rock energy with spacey, ethereal delicacy in a way that sounds cohesive. In what is likely an indication of more to come, expect The Hunna to become a bigger part of the conversation in the new year. 

OF MICE & MEN - ANOTHER MIRACLE (Century Media)

Metalcore veterans Of Mice & Men continue to assert their self-reliance with their ninth full length, Another Miracle. Produced by the band's own Aaron Pauley in what makes the third self-produced, self-recorded, entirely autonomous release - savvy songwriting and strong self-awareness converge as the band further refine their brand of arena-ready metalcore. From well-placed electronics, massive breakdowns and efficient musicianship the album meets all the requisite expectations while still allowing the band space to evolve. These songs are well-built and conducive to the live translation where OM&M truly shine. 

AVOID - CREATURE OF HABIT (UNFD)

Taking on the tall task of standing out musically from the rich legacy of the Pacific Northwest, rock hybrid AVOID have built a reputation on infectious energy and high-octane song dynamics. On their latest EP, the band faces the growing pains of their creative pursuit all while maintaining the same sonic electricity that has characterized their sound thus far. Enduring the struggle of sharing your art for a living, the band manage to compose songs that offer real insight without wallowing. These songs are as introspective as they are invigorated, speaking to just how much AVOID love what they do.