For all that I complain about black metal, I'm well aware that Hatebreed/Cro-Mags-aping hardcore acts are also a dime a dozen, but a) I just like them more, and b) at least they're fun to listen to! Really fun in the case of Dutch hardcore crew Rival Pack.
Again, there are plenty of (often very good) bands that sound like the—see also: Standover from a few weeks back—but, for whatever reason, Rival Pack are compelling me in a way that many similar artists simply do not. Maybe it's the consistent crossover/skate-punk pace that keeps the energy up and prevents things from ever getting too ploddy? Or maybe it's the added metallic edge that brings to mind Get the Shot without ever fully giving in to the cartoonish, over-the-top aggression that band are known for. Whatever the reason, Rival Pack and I are showing absolutely no signs of slowing down anytime soon, and neither should you.