Versus the insanity.

Winners this week are ex-rock band Versus The Mirror. When I mention post-hardcore or screamo, most will probably instantly assume I'm refering to the make-up-and-fringes scene that appears to popular today. In VTM's case, I will warn you now: your assumptions couldn't be more wrong. VTM turned this genre on it's head with their highly-unconventional approach. To the traditional screamo fanatics - don't worry. Though the main body of their music is gritty post-hardcore, they frequently punctuate it with beautiful, atmospheric post-rock passages, reminiscent of many "true" screamo bands. Unlike most post-hardcore bands, there are no whiny, nasally-sung vocals: just harsh, powerful screams. There are no overly-trippy guitar effects or heavy distortion: just organic, chuggy, raw instrumentation. This band is what hardcore music should be about - no frills or sugar coating, yet still driven with pure emotion.