Heavy Heavy Low Low

If you like Simon and Garfunkel or Iron and Wine, you'll hate aptly named Heavy Heavy Low Low, a screamo hardcore act from San Jose, California, that thrives on layers of guttural vocals and thrashing bass. In concert, the band members look appropriately scary: all sweat-drenched manes and spotty facial hair that dots their contorted faces like scabs. Predictable as this is for a group so named, this five-piece offers its share of surprises. For instance, between extended bouts of rage, the band falls deathly silent and lead singer Robbie Smith whispers lyrics that drip like acid. And then there are the sudden explosions of AK-47-like drumming from Christopher Fritter. Combined, this makes for music with the wildness of early Metallica, a sound that defines the quintet's newest release, Everything's Watched, Everyone's Watching. Grand Emporium, watch out.