Balance and Composure - with you in spirit

B- Tier

Soft Grunge stalwarts Balance and Composure released their first major record in eight years this year and boy did they milk the anticipation for months. That said, the band returns with their signature dreamy songwriting and production, along with some lush soundscapes. The vocals are melodic and ethereal, though perhaps overly-processed. B&C fans will have a lot to like on here, but it probably won't convert non-fans. I'd also recommend giving this a shot if you know nothing about the group.

Capillary - Capillary

B- Tier

A potent combination of Emo and Post-Hardcore, this is a debut release from the fabled New Jersey scene. Capillary's s/t EP is a sub-15 emotional, melodic and driving record that will remind you of the special days of the early 00s Vans Warped scene, for better or for worse. Whether wearing their influence on their sleeves is neither a good or bad thing, so it depends on what you're looking for. I can't wait to hear what they put out next - hopefully with even better production and a bit more originality.

The Requiem - A Cure To Poison The World

B- Tier

Okay, let's get the obvious out of the way - this band is MCR worship, nearly to the level of Save Face, if a bit less dramatic. After releasing a series of well-received singles over the last couple of years, The Requiem finally unleash their debut LP. Having utterly obvious influences isn't always a bad thing, especially if you have the skills to confidently expand upon the sound as well as The Requiem does. You know what to find on here - Bullets-era Post-Hardcore x Emo-Pop, bombastic vocal melodies against expertly-produced screams and a true revival of that early Mallcore sound.

I Love Your Lifestyle - Summerland (Torpa or Nothing)

B- Tier

Bright, Summery Emo from Sweden, I Love Your Lifestyle brings their signature Nordic flair to Midwest Emo. Switching between their native tongue and English can feel a bit jarring at times, but it feels pretty authentic. Catchy choruses abound, though they never truly reach captivating territory. An active guitar colors the songs with tons of energy, matching the vocalists’ carelessness. A good, if a bit inoffensive release.

Hot Mulligan - Warmer Weather

B- Tier

Hot Mulligan simply cannot stop releasing memorable, catchy and impactful songs, which is what Warmer Weather is comprised of. Tades signature vocals and hard-hitting lyricism are front and center like always with a potent combo of Emo-Pop and Pop-Punk (with Midwest riffs) driving the eight-minute EP forward. These three tracks were released steadily throughout the year, giving fans personal time with each one. Had this release been slightly longer with similar quality, I would be rating this higher.