Coming straight out of San Francisco Bay area, this band, who started in 98, has since raised a few eyebrows and got the attention of a lot of the old school hardcore enthusiasts, like myself.

From the first day I picked up the CD, I was in love with this band. They take the energy of Minor Threat, the lyrics of Op. Ivy and combine something you don't get too much in the hardcore scene, lyrics that are anti-violence. Yes, the Nerve Agents are a "peace-core" band (if you wanna label them that) but don't let that scare you off, their sound has enough energy to send your uncle to the emergency room, from over stimulation of the brain/body.

Although, this CD doesn't show any evolution in hardcore music, instead it shows you what "real" hardcore is all about. If you are looking for the new sound or want something that is really catchy and light, maybe this band is not what you are looking for, try 7 seconds (or other new school HC band).

Alex Rud is Contributing Columnist. Contact him at misftskull@aol.com.