This one isn't exactly new, but hey, since nobody reviewed it, I figured it was well worth the typing...

'Mercy killers' is the new band of Craig Fairbaugh, former The Forgotten and Lars Frederiksen and the bastards member. This 3-piece has just released it's first full-length 'Bloodlove' through Hellcat records and are getting rave reviews everywhere. Cool to see a new Belgian band like Enemy rose on a split-cd with a popular punkband and releasing it on a big label like I-Scream.

Mercy killers have an original sound. I'm hearing lot's of The Damned, The Jam and The Clash influences while there's a 'new wave' element as well. Their 4 songs are great, nothing more, nothing less.

Enemy rose is a different story. Tommy X and Seven O, both are in the Heartaches as well, are bloodbrothers and decided to take their music to the next level. Since glam is back, the band firmly based in Antwerp created a sound that takes you back to the old New york dolls days. There's a huge Hanoi rocks vibe as well. While The Stones aren't far away either... rock 'n roll and punkrock with a huge, very huge 'image' factor. The production of their 4 songs could've been better, but it's recorded in some guy's attic, so totally DIY!

'Secrets and lies' is a great song, but it's 'enemy' and 'down in the city' that are the best songs on this split, hands down! I hope Enemy Rose survives and records one hell of a record next time around. They've been on tour with Backyard Babies and they've got the 'Hellcat-I-Scream connection', so what could go wrong? Thumbs up and eyeliner on!!

Score: 88/100