Originally published in Verbicide issue #1
(This is the first record ever reviewed in Verbicide)

In a time where jock mentality and violence are overwhelming the hardcore scene, it is refreshing to listen to a band that does not doubt the power of carrying a non-violent message. What is even better is buying a compact disc for just six dollars and hearing not one, but two of these bands. Snapcase Vs. Boysetsfire, a four-song EP released by Equal Vision Records in July of ’99, offers a sample of two of the most positive and beloved bands in the scene.

Snapcase, the influential hardcore group from upstate New York, kick off the album with their newest original single, “Energy Dome.” This song is pure positive energy, just as any devout Snapcase fan would expect. Stressing the importance of motivation, vocalist Daryl Taberski encourages listeners to “rise up and revolutionize your thinking…you need to wake up and activate the dreams of your soul.” The second of Snapcase’s pair of songs is “Truth Hits Everybody,” an excellent cover of the Police song originally recorded in 1978.

Boy Sets Fire open their two-song exposé with “Unspoken Request,” a passionate tune overflowing with empathy and emotion. It expresses the fear and pain that one can only imagine a woman suffering from abuse experiences, and makes any male listener almost feel a shade guilty for his gender. This song leads into and builds momentum towards the album’s final track, the adrenaline-pumping, bang-your-head-against-the-wall “Channel.” Intense and every bit as earnest as the previous song, “Channel” is a rage-filled explosion that still manages to control itself, urging the listener to “channel anger into a righteous act.”

Snapcase Vs. Boysetsfire is a prime example of the music of two solid and talented bands. Each group’s music is a compliment to the others, and the only problem with this album is that its short length leaves you craving more. This album is a must for any fan of either band.

(Equal Vision Records, PO Box 38202, Albany, NY 12203)