Since America's Volume Dealer sounds a lot like alternative metal, the unfamiliar might think they're bandwagon jumpers. But COC were among the first to explore the myriad connections between metal and punk/hardcore when they opened for thrash acts in the heyday of the '80s metal underground. But since likeminded (albeit more commercial) bands like Soundgarden and Faith No More have come and gone, perhaps COC's day has finally come. In fact, America's Volume Dealer is an incredibly high-quality piece of work that exhibits range, musicianship, and confidence. If they occasionally sound a bit like Alice in Chains, remember this: Corrosion of Conformity helped create that sound. --Genevieve Williams