Review
The Frontline
Withstand

Grave Mistake (2005) Clarke

The Frontline – Withstand cover artwork
The Frontline – Withstand — Grave Mistake, 2005

When hardcore started it was fast, powerful and had a strong positive message. While today much of hardcore has lost its sense of positivity, The Frontline brings a great message and great music back with their debut EP, Withstand.

Frontline adds in an uplifting message without sacrificing the intensity, energy and power of the hardcore style. The lyrics speak of withstanding pain, living life one day at a time, and giving your all. Right now you're probably thinking to yourself, "This kid needs to shut up about their lyrics." Let me show you why I brought up their lyrics. Here is a sampling taken from one of their songs:

Will we ever have another chance to make up for the void in our lives?

Can we fill it with care?

Can we bind in with rope?

We must have hope!

Now you many of you may find that cheesy, but how many hardcore bands can you think of that talk about such positive things?

This band has strong influences from Chain of Strength, Insted and Youth of Today. So if you are a fan of any of these bands or any other positive hardcore band, I would give these guys a chance. They look to be one of the most promising bands in the hardcore scene right now.

8.5 / 10Clarke • July 11, 2005

The Frontline – Withstand cover artwork
The Frontline – Withstand — Grave Mistake, 2005

Recently-posted album reviews

The Cascadian Divide

To the Sky
Independent (2026)

The Cascadian Divide is a Washington state based melodic skate punk band that formed during the infamous COVID lockdown. Although it started as an experiment, it soon became a passion project for the band members. The band has seen its share of line up changes over the years, but the commitment to maintaining the sound and integrity of the band … Read more

Jungle Rot

Cruel Face Of War
Unique Leader (2026)

Twelve albums and more than three decades into their career, Jungle Rot remains one of death metal's most reliable institutions. While countless bands have spent years chasing technical excess, progressive experimentation, or whatever trend happens to be dominating the underground now, the Kenosha veterans have remained committed to a simpler mission. Writing memorable riffs, locking into crushing grooves, and leaving … Read more

Overcalc

Fruits of the Decision Tree
Sleeping Giant Glossolalia (2024)

Some instrumental records create atmosphere while others create movement. Fruits of the Decision Tree feels like it creates an entire environment. It’s unstable, mechanical, strangely beautiful, and constantly in motion. The solo project of Nick Skrobisz (Multicult, The Wayward), Overcalc exists somewhere between electronic experimentation, prog-level guitar precision, ambient drift, and full on sci-fi hallucination. Trying to pin it cleanly … Read more