Stephen "Distorted Nation" is the follow up release to Seattle-based hard rock act, Underride's debut, "One of Us" and shown a more matured side of the quintet in terms of musicianship and songwriting. Cranking up high-octane rock and roll, swirled with the dirty hooks of alternative metal but still retain the roots of classic rock, Underride is unique in their own way and definitely one of the bands I'll watch closely in the future.

"Another Way Out" shoots forward with a thrashy hard rock as in Skid Row's legendary "Slave To The Grind", a tense track to start the album. "Paparazzi" could be this year's surprise, covering the sensational hit of Lady Gaga, the hard rock rendition of this song should be in my top 10 covers of the year. "Say Goodbye To Everything's That Gone" is a balance combination of hard rock and alternative, another great track by the band. "Don't Walk Away" is a lovable midtempo commercial track, friendly to everyone's ears.

The second half is even better. The three consecutive superior tracks, "Do Anything To Me", "Inside Out", and "Blinded By You" will assault you with their massive chorus and incinerating riffs. The rest are spread evenly between average and good. My little complaint is on the vocal mix, which sometimes not very audible, drown in the crowded rhythm, such a shame since Rev is a fantastic singer and bringing his vocal upfront should be the priority in the next release.

An unexpectedly great release by the band, an essential purchase especially for modern/melodic hard rock fans!