Children of DesireKartorga Works ****

There are times when a record from a particular scene makes those on the outside eager to check out what’s going on inside. Tampa, Florida’s Merchandise made their bones through years of playing hardcore and punk shows, but their ambitious, wide-ranging and powerful new album has a depth and quality that will resonate beyond the core bailiwick.

Their gumption, drive and desire to widen and extend the sound and up their songwriting and creative ante makes Children of Desire a powerful listen. These six tracks are packed with grand, evocative gestures as guitars, synths, drums and Carson Cox's vocals trip and tip hither and thither between the dramatic snap of In Nightmare Room, the graceful maximalisms of Become What You Are and the smart pop blur of Tears. A band worthy of our attention. merchandisetheband.wordpress.com

Download: Become What You Are, Tears