Sworn Enemy
"As Real as it Gets"
(No Name Recordings/Elektra)

by Beca Marshall

Sworn Enemy has put out an excellent hardcore album. "As Real as it Gets" takes from the roots of NY and NJ hardcore and combines it with a touch of newness that will attract a younger crowd. Upon the first listen, you definitely hear the influence of bands like Madball and Bulldoze but there is also a nice metal touch thrown in, a la Slayer. Sworn Enemy has typical hardcore-esque vocals, crunchy guitars and catchy riffs. Drummer Paulie Antignani is definitely a driving force in the band and combined with Mike Couls on bass, Sworn Enemy has a tight rhythm section. "As Real As It Gets" kicks off with the track "Sworn Enemy" which is the first single from the album. However, I think this is the weakest track on the album so keep listening after the first song. The title track of the album, "As Real As it Gets" is the epitome of hardcore songs and the strongest song on the CD. It's filled with angry hardcore vocals, the shout out to Queens, NY, a melodic breakdown in the middle, and back to the heavy stuff to close out the song. All in all, Sworn Enemy has put out probably one of the best hardcore albums in a long, long time. Contact: Elektra Entertainment 75 Rockefeller Plaza NY, NY 10019 Tel: 212-275-4000

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