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By KRYS GRANDMOND
Staff Writer

It is a goal of Soundline’s to support and represent every genre of independent music out there. That said, this is our first time treading into the often-icy waters of the hip-hop world. Stereotyped by guns, “thugs” and malicious lyrics, independent hip-hop artists have long been forced into an “underground” realm, where many don’t know to look to experience what they have to offer.

Broken Hourglass, thankfully, has surfaced. I’m not normally a huge fan of hip hop. I am a fan of all music, but it’s no secret that my preferred genres all contain the work “rock”. I decided, though, that everybody deserves a fair shot, and popped in the disc.

The first track, and first single, from Broken Hourglass’ self-titled CD, “Forever”, caught my attention and I couldn’t break free. Combining heavy rock riffs, smooth, fluid rap lyrics and powerful female lines in the background, “Forever”, is a positive song that talks of love and life forever. It strays from many other songs on the disc in that it contains a more serious message, possibly from the growth and maturity of the group?

In the same sense, “Rest In Peace” follows a more subdued, serious beat than the rest of the CD. Resonating from a place deep within them, the trio delivers a very powerful message to all those fallen during 9/11. It is an American outreach of support, and it does its job well in my opinion.

“Spanish Girl” is also a step away from the ordinary. Delivered more in the style of Black Eyed Peas, it combines hip hop/rap undertones with a lighter acoustic guitar and piano melody and communicates the message with more singing than rapping. A great, upbeat song with huge potential.

Ultimately, I would definitely say that this is not a group to be overlooked. Broken Hourglass is not your average band out of Texas. In all the hype of rising rock artists and country’s big comeback, this was a pleasant surprise from the underground. Their rock edge has me undeniably hooked!