Stay SharpStay Sharp is a new band straight out of Philadelphia, that helps bolster the quality of hardcore coming out of the City Of Brotherly Love. This debut EP is as hard-hitting as it is fast. The four tracks clock in at just over six minutes of fast-moving melodic hardcore punk that is surprisingly crisp with knife-like precision. The obvious comparison, yet most accurate, would have to be with fellow Philly hardcore-heroes…Kid Dynamite.
Although the fast tempo, melodic hardcore that Stay Sharp play is quickly becoming a played-out sound again in the realm of East Coast hardcore, there's no denying the quality of this band. There may not be an ounce of originality on this release, however, Stay Sharp are already playing this music better than the majority of bands out there who grew up worshipping Dan Yemin and his outstanding melodic hardcore bands.
Throughout the four songs, Stay Sharp establishes a nice bouncy tempo through the excellent rhythm section with infectious bass lines that weave through the punctuating pulse of the drums. The guitars drive the melody with their poppy, yet fast-paced chords. The vocals are crisp and clear throughout which is pretty rare in hardcore these days. Multiple sing-along and gang vocals are used to near perfection on this EP. Very good debut from this band, that deserves to be heard.
Rating: 4/5
Songs Worthy of Replay: "Winning Is Everything" & "Sign It"
Synopsis: If you enjoy Kid Dynamite (and who doesn't?), this is probably right up your alley. As I mentioned before, many bands are attempting this sound, especially on the East Coast, but Stay Sharp have to be given credit for pulling it off so damn well on their debut EP.