American Me - III

I've been a fan of American Me for a few years now and they are one of my favourite Hardcore bands out there. After two very impressive albums under their belt (Heat and Siberian Nightmare Machine) they have now given us their third effort which is titled 'III.' Being signed to Rise Records isn't really something to be proud of, with mostly garbage and horrid scene bands. American Me are one of the few bands signed to the label who are actually worth listening to, I would much rather see these guys on Epitaph or some kind of well-known Punk/Hardcore label. They've always created very aggressive and in your face music which really stood out to me when first listening to them. Short songs that go straight to the point and lyrics that you will have no trouble remembering, American Me are a great band for when you need to vent some of the frustration and anger.

'III' is a little different this time compared to their previous albums, whilst still heavy and angry, it doesn't really feel the same. It's still short, fast and loud like their other two albums, but there's just something missing. There aren't really any memorable songs on here, and while you're listening to the album it's over before you know it and you're left feeling un-satisfied. One of the things I do like about 'III' is the guest vocal spots from bands that I actually really enjoy. Vincent from The Acacia Strain features on the track 'Submissioner' and Jamie from I Declare War adds his heavy, roaring style on 'Veni Vidi Vici.' There are more guest vocalists on the album, but the ones I have mentioned are the only ones I really care about to be honest.

I still quite often throw on 'Heat' and 'Siberian Nightmare Machine' and I still love them each and every listen. But I don't think 'III' is going to end up being one of those albums. It could grow on me I guess, but I doubt it. I'm not saying it's terrible, because it isn't. It's just not as impressive as their previous work and lacking a certain something that I kind of expected them to deliver after such a long wait. The vocals are much the same, still angry, raw and impressive. It's mainly the guitars and the drumming that lets this album down, being rather simple and boring. The production on here is average, not as good as their previous releases which is rather strange and could be the reason why it doesn't sound as good. The highlight of the album is the last track which happens to be a cover of 'The Montreal Screwjob' by Martyr AD.

After waiting three years for another release from American Me, I'm somewhat disappointed but only because my expectations were too high. It's a good album, just not great. It's heavy, angry, simple and catchy in parts. But it isn't close to their previous two albums which is quite a shame.

6/10