The Step Kings - 3 The Hard Way
Label: We Put Out Records
Rating: 
 

There is no denying that the Step Kings kick some major ass and are far superior to 90% of the heavy bands on the scene today. Their last album "Let's Get It On" earned our album of the year honors in 2000, so needless to say these guys really produces excellent music. Sadly, Roadrunner Records seemed inept at promoting this group, who had a huge potential to become a major force in heavy music, if only the label would have put some muscle behind promoting them. Of course, we know now that Roadrunner instead devoted their energy's to promoting lesser bands that had a hell of a lot less originality and potential. The good news is the band is back with a new label and a new album that easily measures up to thier debut. 

The Step Kings are one of the only bands that have found the magical balance between hardcore and melody. They never go too far in either direction and the result is music that will appeal to a much greater audience than if they went full on hard-core or went a more melodic route. What kind of music does the Step Kings produce? That really is a hard question to answer as they mix elements of hard-core, punk and prog into a formula they call "Step-core" a style that came through loud and clear with "Let's Get it On" and continues with "3 The Hard Way". 

The bottom line, The Step Kings is a band that anyone who is into heavier music should check out. Even if hard-core isn't your thing these guys really have the amazing ability to crossover and maybe even open up some closed minds. The Step Kings return with another kick ass album� Will this be our pick for the best album of 2003? That's hard to say but it's already at the top of my list!