When it comes to hardcore rock, there isn’t a lot of variety in the possible sound so it’s up to the band to make some kind of impression. With Japanese hardcore/metal band Edge of Spirit, they bypass this issue by presenting a solid hardcore album.

It shouldn’t be considering anything spectacular, but simply a high standard of hardcore. The self-titled album is impressive in that it doesn’t rely on hooks or any type of misdirection. Simply put, it places the music at the front and blows out decibels by never slowing down and playing tried and true hardcore.

The lyrics are difficult to hear like most hardcore bands and that’s no problem, the music speaks for itself. Edge of Spirit’s self-titled album is perfect for hardcore fans, and considering the band is from Japan and have ingrained themselves in the genre well enough it’s not even possible to tell that they’re Japanese.

And that’s just impressive.