DROPOUT KINGS

AudioDope NAPALM The nu/rap metal revival finds some new champions

This Arizona-based six-piece plan to bring nu metal back. Inspired by two bandmembers creatively covering Lying From You, they quickly gathered a bigger group, released some songs, toured, and never looked back. There have been some shifts along the way, including changing their name from Phoenix Down, but they achieved their goal; this debut delivers Linkin Park-inspired rap-metal with a smooth, modern twist. The band is led by singer Adam Ramey and rapper Eddie Wellz, now with Trevor Norgren on drums, Rob Sebastian on bass, and Staig Flynn and Chucky Guzman tackling guitars. 503 and first single Nvm are aggressive and catchy, 20Heads opens with a pleasingly Beastie Boys vibe, and the title track is engagingly atmospheric. Think squeakyclean production, samples, chunky breakdowns, and vocals spanning tight snappy rap, radiofriendly hip hop, angry roars, and full-pelt passionate screams highly reminiscent of

Chester Bennington. FOR FANS OF: HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD, LINKIN PARK, HED PE