Turnstile - Time & Space
(Roadrunner)

It may come as a surprise to some people (who know me, or actually keep up with the types of music we all review on this wonderful newsletter), but I think Turnstile is just excellent. In particular, their 2015 LP Nonstop Feeling has become one of my favorite hardcore albums from the past 10 years. I think that record was a glorious bit of complete shamelessness, that had a positive and upbeat energy that would not quit. Sometimes uncomfortably confident in their love for NYHC AND bands like 311 and RATM. But it just worked so well on that album. So naturally, I jumped at the chance to review their new LP Time & Space, and while it's definitely a loud and throttling LP, it's not the follow-up that's blowing me away. The production and recording is still definitely heavy and wholly professional but songwriting-wise, it just seems like the band is going through the motions. They’re making the songs they know how to make, but without the strength in their hooks and finesse. However, that's not to say it's just watered down and uninspired; the band is trying new things. There's definitely a lot more emphasis on melody, particularly in the vocals. The little touches of 311 that they used sparingly and honestly very well previously, just kinda takes over too much on here. A decent effort, but I'll most likely stick to Nonstop Feeling for my fix of JUMP THE FUCK UP riffs (VII)
Check out a track here.