7/10

Since the dawn of the new millennium, the Canadian punk scene has proven itself to be one of the most progressive in the world right now. While its more contemporary names in the US and UK look to focus more of the classic sound and bring it roaring up to date, the Canadians seem more keen in turning punk rock into something with superseding originality and grandeur. So after a few years to work out exactly how they continue their own mark on the scene, Metz return with their ferocious fourth full-length 'Atlas Vending', a release that shouldn't be listened to lightly.

Usually at this point in a band's career, ideas of bigger and more adventurous concepts begin to creep in, seeing the group themselves move away from their origins in pursuit of something that suits their current state of mind. But for Metz, it seems like their current state is that of boundless energy that never seems to slow them down. Instead we are treated to a bold and powerful return that continues their fresh and dynamic direction throughout. Mixing progressive and long-form structures with rusty and fuzzy aesthetics sees them almost follow in the footsteps of their Canadian brothers-in-arms Fucked Up.

It may not be the most cohesive or gelled together release of their careers so far, but 'Atlas Vending' seems to do the job in terms of delivering exactly what their fans would have expected. A noisy and boisterous LP that never looks to compromise its focus or intent, and leaves you feeling fully awaken and alive by its cacophonous end.