Sixpin

Lockport-based rock band Sixpin has finally released its debut album, “Made to Bleed,” some three years after the band formed.

Any rock fan will find the CD worth the wait.

Sixpin’s sound is simple and guitar-driven. One of the better songs on the album, “Shatterborn” (which is getting rave Internet reviews), features a syncopated, snare-heavy sound that reminds the listener of Nickleback. Other tracks, such as “Closure of Ashes,” have a Staind-like feel to them.

But while the band draws upon these and other styles, such as Sevendust and Evanescence, there’s enough originality there to make this album unique.

Singer/guitarist Andrew Mitchell creates a hypnotic sound on the guitar. His vocals, meanwhile, conjure images of Linkin Park’s Chester Bennington. Drummer Jared Enderton and bassist Rob Udell do a solid job backing Mitchell up, with an especially strong performance by Enderton on the opening to “Shatterborn.”

The listener almost can’t help but get lost in “Made to Bleed,” which was recorded at The Digital Barn in Wilson. It offers a near-perfect mix of sounds — not as harsh as hard rockers like Korn, but not nearly as soft as much of what’s offered on rock radio.

Whether Sixpin finds a place on the radio is unknown, but the band certainly should be on the airwaves.

Sixpin, which formed in 2003 and has been playing shows since 2004, has started touring in support of its freshman album. The band will host a CD release party Saturday at Club Diablo in Buffalo, and follows that up with a free show at Niagara County Community College next week before going to Ithaca and Ohio.

— Paul Lane

- Niagara Gazette (Night and Day)

Rugged and raw, really good rock and roll is what this band brings to the table. This self released album is better than some major label releases recently. Bringing the rock starting with the first track “High Fashion”, which they slam us with the works featuring rigorous bass playing, powerful percussion play (he bangs the shit out of his kit), guitar riffs worthy of some legends and some extraordinary vocal work. “Closure Of Ashes” tones things down delivering some emotionally driven lyrics bellowed by a voice that showcases its range and depth. The musical accompaniment sounds like some major hit makers such as Papa Roach or even Godsmack. It also offers some brilliant tempo changes. “Escape The Trap” has some wild guitar riffs toss in with some amazing singing changing up styles throughout the track. This band is phenomenal and I’m baffled as to why they have yet to be discovered and signed by a label, watch out for this act they are about to explode onto the scene.

Review by -Geoff Dellinger
- Entertainment World