THE CHALLENGED – Relapse (Cabana1 Records)
Why The Challenged aren't a staple on the radio or MTV-type show is beyond me. Songs like "Road to Self-Sufficiency" and "Cracking Under Pressure" are full of straight-up, high energy punk rock. The lyrics and the music are basic: Loud, brash, and totally danceable pop punk rock, with a melodic edge (sounds like they've been listening to their Bouncing Souls albums), and sometimes snotty lyrics. I wouldn't have it any other way! It always raises my spirit and gives me goose bumps when a band puts their hearts on their sleeves and gives it their all. Nobody's going to mistake The Challenged for the saviors of rock 'n' roll, but when it comes to their infectious grooves, hits, and near-misses, it's just about impossible not to kick your chair away from the table and sing and dance along to the entire album! - Phil Rainone
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