Band Scene XIII: Hawk's Nest April 5th

Last Thursday was another AES sponsored concert at the Nest, featuring Geffen recording artist Sound The Alarm. They are most often compared to New Found Glory, with a popular mix of punk and action-rock influences.

Opening for them was Sandlot Heroes (also from PA), which played very straight forward punk. According to their myspace they have opened for Anberlin, Yellowcard and hellogoodbye to name a few. Not bad for a bunch of teens risking their talent on tour, yet I guess they have proved themselves. Their set was loud and somewhat boring for someone who appreciates a decent solo and variation within sets. They might have won a most colorful gear award however, with a pink velvet Fender amp head and red white and blue striped drum shells.

After a short set STA got ready in no time and was ready to go. Being the closet likeness of the Hawk's Nest, judging a groups' sound is difficult, but the mix was clear, and the vocals only got drowned out during the excellent guitar solos. The album sampler they had out for free was a sneak peek at their debut album due out in June. The vocal-led "Closer" is a great potential first single for them. From their dynamic and rock satisfying set I came away with some new respect for yougn rock bands, because not all of them are of the same caliber. Look for the Sound The Alarm album, or buy the singles on iTunes: