A promotional EP, entitled Split, distributed by Deathwish and Armageddon features two tracks by subtly different artists. The bands, Converge and Dropdead, both have roots in the hardcore genre but take different paths in execution and appeal.

The first track on Split is “Runaway,” contributed by Converge. The song’s grinding sounds and solitary, quick guitar solos are the track’s only highlights. What ensues for about three minutes is the standard, metal drumming and indistinguishable lyrics. For a band who has twenty years of work under their belts, this seems like the typical screamo/hardcore bands that have been playing Warped Tour for years. While the song’s ferocity will be perfect for moshpits, at Warped Tour or really anywhere else, the track has zero substance and emotion.

The second track, contributed by Dropdead, is “Path of Glory.” It’s raw, classic punk at its finest, reminiscent of Black Flag or The Germs. The track is a political anthem for the masses with its unrelenting speed and subtle melodic qualities. This band, also running 20 years strong, remains true to punk’s undying underground.

When full EP’s are released, I suggest checking out Dropdead over Converge. The band seems to know who they are and what they stand for while Converge seems to be playing catch-up with up-and-coming metal acts. **7.5/10