Memphis May Fire is an amazing new band from the Lone Star State that exploded on the scene in 2007 with a self-released, self-titled EP that grabbed America by the horns. These boys found a unique way to add a little Texas heat to their post hardcore sound by mixing some southern twang with heavy riffing and monster screams to create a one of a kind sound. This exciting new sound quickly got the attention of Trustkill Records. A spokesperson for the label boasted that “Not since Bullet for My Valentine’s Hand of Blood have we heard a more compelling set of songs for an EP, where absolutely every song is bone-chillingly perfect, and timeless. These guys are on their way to something huge.” I couldn’t have said any better myself; Memphis May Fire’s self titled EP is one of the best EP’s ever recorded.While in the process of recording their first full length album, singer Chase Ryan and bassist Austin Radford decided to part ways with the band. The remaining members held auditions and quickly found a new bass player and vocalist, Matt Mullins. With all the instrument tracks already recorded, Matty laid down the vocals and Sleepwalking was born July of 09’.This album is country-fried, bourbon-soaked screamo at its finest and is absolutely outstanding cover to cover. The intro track “North Atlantic vs. North Carolina” kicks things off at wide open throttle and the ass kicking doesn’t let up until the final second of the record. Sleepwalking is guaranteed to own the number one spot in your CD changer for weeks.

I’m afraid the love fest has to end here though. After Sleepwalking, Memphis May Fire left Trustkill and released an EP and a full length album with Bullet Tooth and Rise Records, respectively. During the transition to Rise records they seemed to have lost the soulful element that made them so unique and beloved. The strange thing is that under normal circumstances, these are still very good metalcore albums. We’ve just grown to expect so much more from Memphis. This record gets lost in all mainstream metal Rise Records mass produces. As previously stated, it is still a decent album and it is more then worth a listen. Check out Memphis May Fire’s MySpace page for more info and watch their music video for North Atlantic vs. North Carolina below:

Bringing you only the best,

-Goodybag