The second album from brothers Simon and Edsel "Dope" and their ever- changing lineup is a breath of fresh air. While the New York-based sextet fits loosely into the nu metal category, Dope take more from basic rock & roll structures and less from faux-aggro rap-rock than many of their brethren. In fact, the catchy first single, "Now or Never," boasts an almost classic-rock vibe, and the entire record is more rock and less "shock" than their decent debut, Felons and Revolutionaries. Though at times Edsel has a Marilyn Manson inflection to his voice, and on songs like "Stop" there are hints of White Zombie-influenced electronic riff-rock, the melody lines and vocals make most of Life's songs timeless and accessible, while still maintaining a dark, angry and Gen-Y- leaning appeal. Many of Life's 13 cuts, including "What About" and "Slipping Away" are basic, dramatic, and cool, Dope proving themselves no slaves to rock/metal fashion while still existing within their modern musical milieu. --Katherine Turman