12 Rounds

Imagine if Diamanda Galas retained her ability to terrify but hedged her staggering vocal range, then imagine she's fronting a Marilyn Manson-esque band filtered through the Cramps or the Birthday Party. That's the type of creeping, bruising, twisted rock 'n' roll that 12 Rounds create: heavy Industrial beats and buzzsaw noises, guttural guitar lines, and a vocalist that you'd be afraid to meet in a dark alley. Surprisingly, the band doesn't shy away from acoustic terrain -- like Trent Reznor, they'll bear a more vulnerable, quieter side utilizing only the singer's still harrowing voice and an acoustic guitar. It's just as disquieting as their noisier moments, the way that unadorned intensity can often be truly disturbing.