HOLLYWOOD UNDEAD

New Empire Vol. 2 BMG/DOVE & GRENADE MEDIA

LA rap metallers throw some new irons in the fire

When New Empire Vol. 1

arrived last February, its nine, variation-lacking tracks left much to be desired. Vol. 2, however, sees this LA troupe unabashedly playing to their creative whims and not relegating themselves just to the rap metal genre they established themselves with. We’re greeted with a Blink-182-inspired, popleaning anthem, Medicate,

but swiftly rebutted with the trap beat-infused track Monsters that calls upon Cloud rap artist Killstation. Electronic elements appear throughout, complementing the chugging riffs in Ghost Out and Idol, featuring Tech N9ne. Vol. 2 has an all-star guest line-up that also includes Ghøstkid, Jacoby Shaddix and Ice Nine

Kills’ Spencer Charnas. Hollywood Undead clearly aren’t comfortable with complacency as they strive to keep their music evolving. ■■■■■■■■■■

FOR FANS OF: Falling In Reverse, Papa Roach,

From Ashes To New

YASMINE SUMMAN