Signing a UK band to a US hardcore label is a risky endeavor because it is unlikely that the band is going to tour enough in the US to build widespread support for domestic music sales. Despite Bridge Nine’s assertion that DEAD SWANS are the UK’s “most ferocious hardcore export” (I would have nominated STAMPIN’ GROUND for that title, but they broke up a couple of years ago), Sleepwalkers is plenty aggressive, but ultimately, just sort of ordinary.  Musically, DEAD SWANS compare well to BLACKLISTED’s electrifying …The Beat Goes On in that kind of post-AMERICAN NIGHTMARE rampage of scream-heavy vocals over snarling guitars and pounding, rapid fire drums, all backed by an over-sized production. Through the 12 songs, various breakdowns, gear-churning tempo changes, and the like give the 28 minute offering a well-balanced shot of hardcore theatrics. But there’s something ‘special’ missing – labelmates DEATH BEFORE DISHONOR shook off their metallic hardcore shackles with their last release (Better Ways To Die) by incorporating melodic street punk influences, and the result was several songs that instantly smacked the listener with a blast of fresh air. I keep looking for an extra shot of adrenaline on Sleepwalkers, but DEAD SWANS are simply content to play things straight.

Bridge Nine