Adema
Judging by this 12-song debut, the powerful, heavy, and distinctive nu-metal band Adema have the songs, sound, and connections to succeed. Where pull in powerful places is concerned, singer Mark Chavez is the half-brother ofKorn's Jonathan Davis, but Chavez and his cohorts have the goods to go the distance on their own musical merits. Drummer Kris Kohls, a veteran ofVideodrone, bashes withTommy Lee-like power, while Chavez's wide-ranging vocals are appealing, distinct, and intense. From "Giving In," which tackles alcoholism, to the ironic bitterness of "Close Friends," to the epic closer "Trust," Adema create a soundscape that is modern, heavy, and aggro--without being juvenile. With stellar production skills, topical lyrics, and a vibe that's current without being too trendy, Adema have promise to burn.--Katherine Turman