|
 |
The Gauntlet: Bleeding Kansas |
 |
|
|
 |
From an unsuspecting place - Burbank, California - comes an unsuspecting sound, via the four individuals who compose Bleeding Kansas. Comprised of Daniel Pouliot (drums), Mike Wetzel (bass), David Watrous (guitar) and Ben March (vocals), the band has passionately embraced hardcore/punk for its cathartic expression, rather than the recent surge in burly, tough guy posturing. This modus operandi is made all the more clear when noticing the band's wide spectrum of influences and inspirations. Through careful listening these comparisons come to the surface and reference such diverse acts as Botch and Black Flag and even contemporary groups such as Breather Resist and Converge. However, the band's sound is rounded out with an honest desperation where a word like "screamo" is tossed around, yet fails to do justice. Formed in 2001, Bleeding Kansas have constantly been active. Having toured the U.S. with acts like Hot Cross, The Great Redneck Hope, Converge, Cursed and Breather Resist, the band has played all over, from large, sold-out venues to some of the dirtiest garages imaginable. Previously, the quartet has officially released material only on vinyl: a split with The Great Redneck Hope and a seven-inch on Coldbringer Recordings. Ever since, the band has been DIY-ing the awareness of this, its debut EP, by pressing limited-edition samplers distributed for free at shows and through the band. Recorded by Kurt Ballou (Converge), the title, 1859, references the themes of slavery and rebellion, a common thread found throughout the record from its titles and lyrics to its imagery and layout. Truly, Bleeding Kansas delivers an emotionally liberating release.
|
|
|
