Break The Cycle

In an era dominated by boy bands and the return of death metal/hair bands/speed metal, it's nice to hear from a group that has both talent AND taste.

Aaron Lewis has one of the best voices in music today. His self critical raging lyrics give a tremendous vehicle for his voice to shine on. Staind is probably the most important straightforward hard rock group since Pantera, and the music reflects their focus on great songs over flashy riffs and cool clothes.

They've been referred to as being the leader of misery rock I find their songs to be far more inspirational and uplifting than depressed. Melancholy can be a release and they get through their downs by writing great songs about them. Songwriting as self therapy is a powerful tool and it allows the artist to reach others who feel the same way. The brilliance of Staind is in their ability to articulate emotions and mental states that everyone goes through.

Hot spots: Fade, It's Been Awhile, Can't Believe, Epiphany, Take It.