Looking for a little bit of hipster cred while listening to a few of your favorite Christmas time standards? Then look no further. Released in November 2011, this all-too-short collection of classic holiday tunes quickly became the album I reached for most often when it came across my desk shortly after Halloween. GRO isn’t breaking new ground on any of the tunes covered here, but lead vocalist Josh Jenkins’ plaintive and emotive voice makes you believe every word when speaking of the birth of the Christ on the tracks “Silent Night” & “O, Holy Night,” which to me serve as the pinnacle of the entire EP. The standard winter-themed songs often present around Christmas are also represented, and are performed with joy and mirth and – unless you liken yourself to ol’ Ebenezer – will have you merrily singing along. It’s short and sweet and to the point and a high recommendation for this season’s festivities.
Features
Atreyu's Baptism
At their core, Atreyu is a hard rock band with metal riffs and pop choruses. Now, after more than 20 years, the band has stepped boldly into their next chapter with a change in lineup and an album that proves the lifeblood of Atreyu is stronger than ever.
Full Feature More from Atreyu
Alphaville’s Metal Renaissance
With influences that span Miles Davis and Stravinsky to Geddy Lee and Les Claypool, jazz metal force Imperial Triumphant is the epitome of genre-bending. HM contributing writer Andrew Voigt spoke with the band about their unique style, the massive bass presence in their music, and the rise and fall of civilization.
Full Feature More from Imperial Triumphant
Heaven's Metal
When rock emerged from blues and 'heavy metal' began to surface, faith-based metal acts also rose to start their own journeys. Initially shunned by both believers and non-believers, they were fighting for their spot at the table, ultimately building a legacy that would go on to change the genre forever. HM presents an oral history of the beginning of Christian metal music, featuring Guardian, Tourniquet, Holy Soldier, Whitecross, and, of course, Stryper.
Full Feature More from Guardian
Five Death Metal Bands You Need to Know Now
Death metal is no longer strictly a one-kind-of-sound genre but a cloud under which many elements have formed. We have assembled five must-hear death metal acts you should be listening to now, each distinctly set apart from another in form, yet still brethren in the death metal community.
Full Feature More from In-Conquered
