This metalcore split cd was more of a surprise than I thought it would be. In fact, I quite enjoyed it. Even the vocals didn�t irritate me, which is usually the factor that makes me not like most hardcore. But these two bands from USA and Germany perform a six good tracks. The short but pounding tracks that Malakhai produce are just plain great. The first time I heard them, I had to get used to the whole Malakhai idea, but after a while I enjoyed the three tracks a lot. Not highly original, just ass-kicking. The way hardcore should be! But then Shanara begins, and how! Showing a lot of potential on the musical area, lacking a bit on the vocal front. The screams sounding very desperate, but the grunts and singing are quite ok. There are even some good melodic guitar parts in some tracks too. This band is as well as pounding very varying. Great combination I�d say. Well, for two bands from a genre that I don�t have a lot of they kick serious ass! Check them out! Tracklist: Malakhai: 1. Blood Stains 2. Remember 3. Tomorrow�s Depression Shanara: 4. The Useless Solution 5. Coronary 6. Open The Chamber To Your Loneliness