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ALBUM REVIEW: "Places" by The Ongoing Concept

   The Ongoing Concept's third full length is easily the most unique post-hardcore record to drop this year. Whether or not it's actually good is another matter, but - as fans of the band will have come to expect - purely from a creative standpoint The Ongoing Concept have been consistently keeping it fresh with every release to date. While I've already dropped the post-hardcore label, it is a disservice to pigeonhole this band into anything, and Places confirms that notion by delivering a staggering concoction of riffs, R&B sections, ska, disco, funk, synths, horn sections, screaming, falsetto hooks and heavy guitars. As someone who's familiar with the band but not a die-hard by any means, my eyebrows were permanently raised for the entirety of the 36-minute affair (in the best way possible). And, dammit, it's really really good. Beneath the sheen of "what-the-hell-is-happening" insanity there are some seriously cool, catchy songs. I'm hesitant to say anything else, because there really isn't anything that can prepare you for this album. It's no Igorrr in terms of pure brain melting insanity, but that's a good thing; these are songs you can dance and air guitar to while shaking your head at in sheer disbelief.

   Favourite Songs: You Will Go, The Print, Domesticated, Owe Me, Spirit Lake

   Least Favourite Song: Shake It

   Rating: A

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