[3.5/5]
Though they logged serious hours in a veritable who's-who of screamo luminaries (City Of Caterpillar, Pg. 99, Malady), the members of Haram show no signs of reliving past glories. In fact, they effectively trounce their self-titled debut with the far superior Drescher. With steady Drive Like Jehu-esque rockers and off-kilter Sonic Youth-y experimental jams, Haram display their meteoric growth. The addition of a third guitarist (Ben Tankersley) and a new bassist (Kevin Longendyke) enhance their songwriting prowess. To boot, the songs display unpredictable structures and unexpected turns, like the bass-led bridge of "St. Feliu" or the singing on "Death Blues." A casual listen might indicate a band stuck in the rinse cycle of early-'90s Dischord bands, yet Haram spin a discord all their own on this impressive sophomore release. (LOVITT) Casey Boland
 Official Website: http://www.lovitt.com
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