aaamusic | On 17, Nov 2010

New York’s The Audio Cartel are a full-on feast for even the most hardened of senses. In an age of panic the Brooklyn natives breathe new life into a stagnant rock scene and pack everything they are into a raw live show featuring pure and explosive energy. Jesse Hunter’s (Ian Hunter, Mott The Hoople) signature scream bounces off of Tyson Schenker’s (Michael Schenker, The Scorpions) raging guitar work for a supreme amalgamation of alternative rock goodness with an addictive grunge stomp that will command your immediate attention.

The group is influenced by a range of styles and while previous reviews have likened them to established powerhouses like The Bronx and Buckcherry, it is clear that The Audio Cartel have an affecting sound that’s all their own. They are also heavily inspired by their schizophrenic surroundings in New York and aim to bring the city’s punk spirit and do-or-die attitude with them as they take the stage to destroy your ears and add to their diverse and dedicated fan base.

The Audio Cartel released their first EP on their own ‘Lovin’ Cup’ label in May 2009. From the blistering opener ’You’re so Good’ to the swagger of the ‘Dumb and the Ugly’ it’s all about infectious grooves along with hard, dirty and fast melodies. The self-titled CD was released on CDBaby and iTunes. Having toured extensively around the East Coast of America before Christmas 2010, The Audio Cartel landed their first UK show at Camden’s Dingwalls venue with a sell out crowed opening up as main support for Tracie Hunter. Not to mention, just recruiting onboard robo-armed drummer Ricko Walsh.

Returning with a string of live UK dates, The Audio Cartel kicked off June 1^st at London’s HMV Forum opening for the multi-million selling rock band Switchfoot.