Although the first version of the Atticus compilation was pretty good, it had very little replay value after the first few weeks of listens. Besides having only a select few of true “exclusive” songs, the abundance of pop-punk was overwhelming and at times, dispirited. Much of the qualms that I had with the first version have been squashed with #2, as the new compilation bests the first in all aspects. Most specifically, Atticus 2 covers a wider range of sounds, talents, and attitudes, and sequences them in a hard-hitting, high-quality, consistent fashion. Of immediate notice on here is the new LAGWAGON track, “E. Dagger,” which shreds in all aspects. Although it’s been awhile since said band has been in the spotlight, with their upcoming new album, I’m glad they got a feature on here. To head back a bit, it’s worth noting that ROCKET FROM THE CRYPT were given the honor of opening this disc with their booty-shakin’ song “I’m Not Invisible,” which is an instant party classic. HOT WATER MUSIC, THRICE (with the earth-shattering “To Awake and Avenge The Dead”), and a new song from FINCH, entitled “Worms of the Universe” keep things in high gear. In the immortal words of Kevin Wade, the new FINCH song “does not suck.” I couldn’t agree more, as the band goes with a heavier than normal sound that only furthers their desire to become as good as GLASSJAW. Also of note on the first half is a track from SPARTA that was recorded during the sessions of their debut album, and it’s a keeper. BLINK 182 sound rather outdated with their bland tune, “Don’t Tell Me That It’s Over.” Side One’s new signee, MAXEEN clock in with a unique, peppy, emoish song that’s got an interesting vibe to it. I look forward to hearing more from them. FURTHER SEEMS FOREVER contribute the best song from their new disc, “How To Start A Fire,” with “Pride War,” which is followed by the ever-somber JETS TO BRAZIL. I really appreciate how Side One was able to work JTB on here, as this will probably grant them exposure to a whole new group of kids. H20 contribute an unreleaed song called “All We Want,” and although not a terrible song, it continues the downward this slope this band has grappled with since they checked their hardcore roots in a coat-closet and tossed out the key. For the love of god, why did they think they’d succeed as a pop-punk band?!? Don’t forget your roots… Anyway, RISE AGAINST destroy all with “Heaven Knows,” as does a new track by DOWN BY LAW called “Next to Go,” which sounds beautifully raw and unpolished among a sea of overdubs and general loudness. The epic BANE contribute “Some Came Running,” and although they seem a tad of out place on here, it’s BANE!!! so who the fuck cares… ALKALINE TRIO close this compilation out with a live version of “Crawl,” and the recording quality is fantastic. So there ya have it – a synopsis of current, mostly independent music from across the country neatly packed into a 76 minute offering, and sold at a cheap price. Sounds like a deal to me.

Side One Dummy

www.sideonedummy.com