Today, On the Cinder is known as a powerhouse punk band from upstate New York. But back in 2013, Jason, Tyler, and Mike were just roommates with big dreams at the Flower House in Buffalo. Over the last decade, this trio has used their strong work ethic, diy values, and talent to gain notoriety on several national tours while still producing sincere lyrics and hard hitting sounds. Their latest album, Heavy-Handed, was released digitally and on vinyl in May of this year. Still staying true to their diy roots, it was put out by their own label, Flower House Records.
Being greeted by a throaty bass line and dissonant screaming is a sure fire way into my heart. The first song, “Smells Like American Spirit”, walks a line between unhinged and put together, toggling from fist-pumping melodic phrases into ground stomping hardcore breakdowns. This album grabbed me by my theoretical balls. I was immediately invested and was so excited for the twists and turns that the tunes were about to send me on.
There is a lead guitar tone that is popular in punk that I can only describe as “Mega Man.” Go ahead, go back, and play the game. You’ll observe that the soundtrack is one long punk guitar solo. You won’t be able to un-hear the similarities either; then we can discuss this over beers. Anyhow, this album is littered with Mega Man riffs, backed by gritty vocals, and plenty of driving, four on the floor drum beats.
But don’t take this assessment as every song sounds the same; there are clear movements within each one that keep you from spacing out and thinking about what you want to cook for dinner. Formulaic at times, you’ll hear driving choruses followed by broken up choruses, but you’re craving it from this album. They’ve perfected that transition and, not unlike potato chips, you can’t have just one. Think of Let’s Talk About Feelings by Lagwagon, but AMPED UP, bro.
The energy never seems to cease in this record. Throw it on for your long drive to the beach this summer. You’ll be head banging like Wayne and Garth as you are engulfed in punchy, right on the nose, melodic punk phrasing. Every song has attitude. They empower the listener; making them feel triumphant in a daydream mosh pit. Or you know, a real mosh pit if that’s your sort of thing.
This is a solid choice for any punk fan. I would also use it as a tool to introduce a newbie to the genre. It follows the punk recipe very well, with added spices here and there. Grab a vinyl copy on their Bandcamp page and add the digital version to your collection. It is a blast to listen to and I am eagerly awaiting for when these Buffalo boys make it to DC. Y’all can stay at my house.
Nicole is a lover of music, movies, and margaritas. Aside from writing for PA and Find out, she also plays in Collider and Accidents. You can probably find her playing guitar in a punk act at some shitty bar in DC or taking 1000 photos of her cats.