5 State Killing Spree
The Basement Recordings 2011
Apathy Records
Street: 10.01.11
5 State Killing Spree = Fastball + Candlebox + a dab of Carlos Santana 
Alternative, ‘90s-inspired and with a fun little Latin twist in the rhythm now and again, these guys have done a nice job of referencing some of the bands they probably grew up listening to. I feel like they have incorporated touches of inspiration from Lynyrd Skynyrd (on “Higher”) and Kings of Leon, and they’ve created some new tunes that their peers, who shared their musical journey, can totally appreciate. It’s a little gritty, sometimes melodic and beautiful, and I commend their exploration of their influences. Admittedly, I’m not in love with the band name—hey, I’m a lover, not a fighter. Nevertheless, I say, rock on, gentlemen, and keep on killing it with the tunes.