The Lost Archives Surfacing the reviews of our forgotten youth
    HM Magazine #78
    HM Magazine #78/American Made
    American Made — Against the Flow cover

    American Made

    Against the Flow

    Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt

    Listen on Apple Music
    Label KMGHM Magazine #78July 1999
    pop punkpunk

    KMG has not only purchased the entire Frontline catalog (thank you!), but they've started signing some good bands. American Made is their first venture into punk rock. These guys come together with tons of energy and meld melodic pop punk with some nice rap-like vocals and loud, crisp yet distorted guitars. What stands out in this day of the "Fun Only" agenda is the straight-up lyrics about God and His love.

    It's hard not to totally fall in love with this band. The pop melodies are so big, and the musicianship is just fast and tight. If you're not singing along to "That Thing I Do," then you must be dead.

    With Billy Smiley's production, I get the impression at times that the goal was to make the sound slightly safe. This is my only criticism. These guys have a cool sound, and it's ready for the radio. More importantly, it sounds ready for a live audience.

    Also in HM Magazine #78

    The Awakening — Request / RisenSpitfire — The Dead Next DoorVarious Artists — Reborn Records Compilation Vol. ITantrum of the Muse — The Heart Is A Two-Headed SpermHopesfall — The Frailty of WordsPlankeye — RelocationLarry Norman — Labor of LoveVarious Artists — No Compromise SamplerMidnight Orchestra — Land of NodDeuteronomium — Here To Stay