As Summer Fades
Self-Titled
Self Released

This EP is the debut release from a brand new Jersey Shore band that features members who had previously cut their teeth in such groups as Test Of Courage, For The Record and Far From Out to name a select few. The aforementioned bands were solid and underrated local New Jersey hardcore punk groups. Coming from the same area as these guys, I'm accustomed to the sounds of their other bands, which is why this new band is such a pleasant surprise. As Summer Fades has very little in common with those groups. Instead, they churn out some memorable punk tunes that are heavy on the melody yet they keep a modest hardcore undertone within the tunes.

I've been spinning this EP all day long for the past couple days and ASF clearly sound like a specific band I just can't put my finger on. I guess you can call it 'reviewer's block', its quite the bitch. Anyway, some bands that do instantly come to mind when I listen to these guys are mid-'90s melodic New Jersey bands such as Standpoint, Shady View Terrace, & Ex Number Five. I also get a vibe that is similar to some bands that were on New York's Immigrant Sun Records in the late '90s such as The Cable Car Theory.

One of the great things about this band coming together now is that this style of music is not being covered by every band across the globe. It's been done in the past and there are some bands out there now that fall into the same realm, however, it certainly is not the trendy style of music to be playing. As Summer Fades do have plenty of room for improvement and it makes me look forward to hearing these guys grow into their sound. At times they don't seem 100% comfortable in this style of music, but that will come with time. It's an impressive debut that shouldn't go unnoticed.

Rating: 4/5
Songs Worthy of Replay: "Change It Up!", "Lock And Key" & "Apologies To The Queen"
Synopsis: Excellent up-and-coming new melodic punk band with some pop and hardcore sensibilities. They have room for improvement but surely will be a great band someday soon. For now, they are a very good band that deserve your time and attention. As Summer Fades MySpace