Zero Hour
Absolute Zero
Self-Released

A quick web search reveals there are at least five bands with the name Zero Hour (including one from the UK, and one from Japan), and with band members ranging in age from thirteen to sixteen, it would be easy to call this one from Richmond, Virginia, a novelty act. But Zero Hour's penchant for Blink 182 pop-punk catchiness and Nirvana-esque big rock riffs are serious. These songs may be fun, but they are no joke. It'll be a treat to watch this band evolve as they age. If they play their cards right, they could make some weighty statements when their youthful, romantic views on love get smashed with their first heartbreak experience. Cynical, I know, but it happens to the best of us. And at least these kids will have a rockin' band to help them deal.

Brad Filicky