Review / 200 Words Or Less
Final Verdict
Reaching for Something Better

Independent (2007) Jason

Final Verdict – Reaching for Something Better cover artwork
Final Verdict – Reaching for Something Better — Independent, 2007

Typical mid-tempo to fast metal-core that thankfully takes its queues from early 90's metallic hardcore than it does from the fashion inspired Sweden riff infested crap of the earlier part of this decade. The first track, "Cry Havok," is best of the seven songs on here with its sludgy yet melodic onslaught to the ears. It's heavy sounding, yeah no kidding, it's metalcore. No I mean you actually feel weighed down listening to the song. The rest of the songs run the gambit of fast drumming with nice melodic bridges, some breakdowns, and snarled vocals. If you like Shai Hulud, Harvest, or even Unearth you'd probably like Final Verdict. Also, nice Ferris Bueller's Day Off sample.

7.7 / 10Jason • February 14, 2008

Final Verdict – Reaching for Something Better cover artwork
Final Verdict – Reaching for Something Better — Independent, 2007

Recently-posted album reviews

Tired Radio

Hope In The Haze
Red Scare Industries (2025)

I knew of Tired Radio, but I didn't really know the band's work. When Red Scare announced they'd signed the band, I figured it was a good excuse to dive in -- and I'm glad I did. Hope in the Haze is the title of their Red Scare debut and that title kind of sums up their general vibe too. … Read more

The Resinators

Recorded In 2005 By Jay Reatard
Independent (2024)

Interesting little slab we got sent to SPB by a Mr. Ed Young. Two originals and a cover, recorded in Jay Reatard’s living room back in 2005 as the title suggests. So that would be around the time of The Reatards’ Not Fucked Enough for anyone keeping track. Jay had apparently just switched from analog to digital recording but it … Read more

Various Artists

Bombs Away!
Rad Girlfriend Records (2025)

Split records have always worked best when they feel intentional rather than convenient, and Bombs Away! lands firmly in the former category. Bringing together East Bay veterans Tsunami Bomb and Oakland’s The Hammerbombs, this six-track split (three songs per band) doesn’t just unite two names but captures two complementary approaches to Bay Area punk that still feel vital decades into … Read more