Dynamic Tallahassee, FL based rock band DEFY THE TYRANT have, in just a few years, developed a polished fusion of Southern and Classic Rock blended uniquely with Nu-Metal. They pride themselves to such diverse influences as GARTH BROOKS, SLIPKNOT, STEVIE RAY VAUGN, MOTLEY CRUE, FUEL, EVENDUST and CREED. With a percolating energy throughout, DEFY THE TYRANT is positioning to push a fresh voice and sound into the heavy rock machine and redefine what "Alternative Metal" means. Their newest album, "Bones," contains seven tracks.

"Bones" leads off the album. A scream leads to the opening guitar sequence. The first verse is just vocals and light drumming. The vocal harmonies really carry the sound here, because the instrumentation is fairly light and thin. It's a pretty solid opening song. "Defy the Tyrant" opens lightly, with just a little guitar, leading to a scream and a big riff. It has a heavier feeling than the previous track, and the vocal cadence is where you pick up on the alternative elements.

"Fighting Gravity" opens with a full, mid-tempo swing. The guitars, bass and drums are hardened and in it for the long haul. The vocals are clean at first, then lead to some screams. Again, the sound is extended in the chorus with harmonies. "Tear it Down" breaks into a strong riff with an opening scream and some lead guitar work. Again, the alterative elements come from the cadence in the vocals. The harsh vocals do bring another element to the table.

"Tight Rope" features some heavy vocal screams and instrumentation. Then, some light and ethereal elements wash over the chaos. Again, it's that vocal cadence that gives away the genre that you are listening to. "Upside Down" opens with clean guitars and a solemn feeling, echoed in the distorted guitars. The verses are airy and emotional, and the anger comes in at the chorus. "Voices" closes the album, with a little more attention paid to the guitar work. There are even a few pig squeals. The mid-tempo sound is augmented by the harsh vocals.

Overall, I am not really hearing much of the Southern or Classic sounds in their music, or even some of the artists they mention above, but that is neither here nor there. These days, having a growler is almost necessary, and it does add some extra flavor to the music. The band is also good at pushing a full, rich chorus. Where they need the most work is probably in the riffing department, as some come off as re-treads from the past, and others come off a bit thin. Overall, a decent first effort that has potential.