Against All Odds

Hailing from New York city its almost impossible for Shutdown to shed its NY hardcore heritage. And even though they play well and write rhythmic, driving tracks they haven't made their own unique mark on the scene. Singer Mark Scondotto sounds extremely young. His vocals are high pitched and almost adolescent sounding, but the contrast with the heavy music makes an interesting blend. "Network" has Scondotto screaming until he's out of breath. The urgency of his youthful voice adds impact to the rhythm laden breaks between verses. But on the very next track, "Inside Out," he's back to steady, predictable screaming. For a first effort Shutdown shows tremendous talent, even if they are a little too reverent to their predecessors.