Isis

With this EP, their second release, Isis starts really developing their own style of dense, down-tempo hardcore sludge metal with electronic accents, possessed screaming vocals, and a generally bleak atmosphere. Their songs tend to be on the long side -- between four and ten minutes apiece -- and in addition to that, they are clearly meant to flow together as part of a start-to-finish listening experience. (The conceptual feel of this EP is also highlighted by the lyrics, which use mosquito/insect references as a metaphor for a failed relationship.) "Hive Destruction" showcases the band's riff-writing abilities at their best and is arguably the highlight here, but the whole EP is solid and should please anyone into this band. ~ William York, All Music Guide