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The Golden Age produce a sophomore full-length that's more or less a solid entry in the less populated area of semi-melodic hardcore (opposed to, you know, less so or just plain full-on).

Unlock Yourself's songs make a point of coming in, making a point, then leaving, and its impeccable urgency is what keeps it enjoyable -- all average about two minutes apiece. While Strike Anywhere's been a frequent comparison, there's a smartly heavier thump to the record that seems to re-imagine Solid State-era Stretch Arm Strong playing at more consistently punk speeds and refraining from any breakdowns or general mosh parts. "Old Ghosts" comes through with a surprisingly slower, swirling opening, though, that's almost reminiscent of someone like Engine Kid, and the tempo changes and loose gang vocals in "Recharge" make it a standout.

Musically, there's nothing really cheesy here, but the adamant simplicity in "The Constant" ("I am straight edge. / I will always be.") sticks out sorely, even if it's made up for by the Stay Gold-ish guitar melodies towards the song's end. Non-edgers and non-vegans might be a little bothered by the better worded but still rather straightforward statements and guilt induction of "The Key," too ("I choose compassion over cruelty. / I refuse to ignore my conscience."). It has some guitar parts super reminiscent of Strike Anywhere, and that's cool either way you cut it. The rest of the album sees more thoughtful discussions revolving around optimism and regret of the human spirit.

Unlock Yourself doesn't quite stock itself with enough dynamism and hooks to rise above the great albums that have come out in recent years traversing similar territory, but it's a worthwhile time for fans of the style.

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Unlock Yourself



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    Posted by you_are_a_loser on 2009-11-13 01:22:10

    "I know you're both retarded."

    Your name suits you well.

    Posted by Misanthropee on 2009-11-09 21:22:53

    I haven't heard this band, but I have eyes and can also read, so I know you're both retarded.

    It's a 3.5-star review. Equivalent to 7 points. Everyone chill out. Yeesh.

    Posted by inagreendase on 2009-11-08 13:59:53

    ugh, this sounds like a review for a 5 star album, yet it gets 7 stars. can we please get some reviews that give something other than 7 or 8 stars?

    I'll assume you mean 2.5 stars. Punknews.org does not give out more than 5 stars. And I thought I emphasized enough that it was pretty good, not great, though.

    And there are 2/5 and 2.5/5 reviews almost directly below this review...

    Posted by LeightonESmith on 2009-11-08 02:07:47
    My Score:

    Yeah, this isn't bad.
    I'm still waiting for the next "great" melodic hardcore release.

    Posted by TheChemist on 2009-11-07 15:56:11

    Sad to say that I only went to 2 or 3 of their 100's of shows back in CC during high school. They are really pretty solid.

    Posted by friokir on 2009-11-06 17:01:10

    "Solid State-era Stretch Arm Strong playing at more consistently punk speeds and refraining from any breakdowns or general mosh parts."

    sounds quite good.

    Posted by Blackjaw_ on 2009-11-06 16:21:24
    My Score:

    This is really good for its genre, enough that I put it on every once in a while and almost make it all the way through. I don't really listen to this kind of stuff usually, but this stands out.

    Posted by Rastid on 2009-11-06 14:51:39

    ugh, this sounds like a review for a 5 star album, yet it gets 7 stars. can we please get some reviews that give something other than 7 or 8 stars?

    Posted by Mr_International on 2009-11-06 14:35:48
    My Score:

    Great band. I love everything they've done so far, really solid young band.

    Posted by Archangel on 2009-11-06 11:51:00

    The comment below mine pretty much sums this up.

    I'll add the following: This band has beautiful shirts/album art. And they were just ridiculously nice when I stopped to buy their cd after a show in Seattle.

    Posted by you_are_a_loser on 2009-11-06 11:24:34
    My Score:

    Even though I drink beer and eat meat, I think this band is pretty awesome. Sometimes the lyrics are a bit simplistic, but the musicianship is great.

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