With 11 songs that cruise by in about 25 minutes, the Victory debut from Canadian act Comeback Kid masters a punk rock efficiency without sacrificing melody. The hardcore quartet hits all the genre’s key points, with rapid rhythms, thrashing guitars and anthem-ready, us-versus-them choruses. Vocalist Scott Wade forgoes range for consistency, keeping his yell at the same vein-straining level throughout. Yet behind him the group kicks up punk-meets-metal fury that will be a hit with Ozzfest and Warped tour crowds. The album—which was co-produced by former Descendents/Black Flag drummer Bill Stevenson—never wavers in its acceleration, and Comeback Kid rightly puts hooks ahead of velocity. A tour with the like-minded Bane should solidify the act’s fan base.—TM
