The 4-Squares - Steve's Hamper (Quincy Shanks)

Reviewed by Mark Oster

The date on the back of the CD says 2002, but this most recent release from the vetaran 4-Squares takes me at least 5 years farther back than that, in more ways than one. Chord-heavy melodies distorted in a fashion that recalls early Chicago punk heroes like Naked Raygun or, more accurately, 8-Bark, shake hands with very early hardcore styled vocals. The vocals are difficult to understand, but the barked rhythyms serve nicely as a centerpiece to the torrent melodies created behind them. This album isn't for everyone, modern punk fans will be disappointed with it's rough edges, and modern hardcore fans will lament the lack of an all out assault, but make no mistake, there's no lack of aggression or melody here. If you dig early Hot Water Music, 8-Bark, or Rise Against, you may want to check this album out.

Originally posted in Issue 1.1, August 2004