The Underground Rises

Nevermind that it’s 105 degrees on a daily basis now, we both know that no matter how hot it gets, wearing something else other than a black concert tee is NEVER an option. That smell of unwashed denim and stank only means that the summer concert season is almost upon us.

From last week …

Clutch - Robot Hive/Exodus (DRT Entertainment)

These Maryland road-warriors made a name for themselves by combining Sabbath’s grooves with Zeppelin’s power. Clutch is a working class-band who unabashedly sing about trucks, booze, and having a good time. Not afraid to ride a jam, Clutch have developed a unique style that sells out shows wherever they play. "Robot Hive/Exodus" is a killer album that closely follows last year’s great "Blast Tyrant." Clutch is currently on the Sounds of the Underground Tour.

DVD: Lamb of God - "Killadelphia" (Epic)

Pure. American. Metal. If the words "Wall of Death" gets your blood pumping, then you know what the mighty Lamb of God do when they hit the stage. Pure devastation, each and every night. These West Virginians are rightfully the headliners of the Sounds of the Underground Tour, and they will also be headlining the SOTU off-date here in Austin.

This week …

A Life Once Lost - Hunter (Ferret)

This is a fine metal-core release from these relative newcomers who are also part of the Sounds of the Underground Tour. At times, "Hunter" almost sounds like vintage Zao, without the hardcore breakdowns. A Life Once Lost definitely have a future once they step out of the shadows and establish their own unique sound. They have the talent, but only time will tell if they can become the next big thing. As I Lay Dying should pay attention, ‘cause these guys are the closest thing to competition that they face. A Life Once Lost will also be playing here in Austin when the SOTU off-date makes a stop at Stubb’s.

And our Austinist "this one goes to eleven" pick-of-the-week goes to none other than …

Throwdown - Vendetta (Trustkill)

Don’t get us wrong, "Haymaker" was one hell of an album, but after a few plays, it was hard to see past all the "Satisfaction is the Death of Desire" moments on that album. Throwdown have finally usurped their masters by delivering an album greater than Hatebreed’s latest. Brutal breakdowns with ass-kicking riffs make this a must-have for every FSU wannabe and XXX-er alike. Guess what, these guys are also part of Sounds of the Underground. Ozzy has a lot of competition this summer, and metal fans are the ones who win as there’s a lot of good bands headed your way. It's gonna be a great summer.