Rocking out from Amish country

Think only the Amish, horse-drawn buggies and glass-blowing factories come from Lancaster, Pa.? Well, here’s something the kids can enjoy.

The band Circus Circus was formed in 2006 and then hit the scene in 2007 with its first album, “Hut Hut Hike,” showcasing the band’s talent. Circus Circus quickly became one of the most popular underground bands, finding itself ranked amongst Chiodos, Every Time I Die, The Devil Wears Prada, Fall of Troy and August Burns Red.

Maintaining its place in the ranks, Circus Circus’ “Brooklyn Nightlife” is a solid album that represents all that these young, talented musicians have to offer.

While it’s difficult to place a finger on the exact sound of Circus Circus, “Brooklyn Nightlife” is another compliment of Mike Williams’ off-the-wall lyrics and vocal style; it’s a mixture of screams, succinct lines and softer melodies thanks to guitarists Jason Terry and Justin Smith, bassist Matt Glassmyer and drummer Evan Dyer.

The song “Amputee Ball” grabs listeners’ attention from the start, allowing their ears to tune in for an exciting ride. Dyer’s opening drum beats provide the perfect backdrop for Williams’ exclamations. The song shows the lyrical empowerment with which the band leaves the listener. “I challenge you to a resurrection of our common colds with uncommon tension.”

“Fact Monster” talks about how we are “(expletive) into our mothers,” exemplifying that we all come from the same actions and end up with the same fate, “High class now but you’re just dust when you die.”

Containing an internal rhyme, Williams’ vocabulary and sentence structure captures the mind, while the rhythmic sounds of Circus Circus grace the ears and make listeners want to get up and dance.

Neighbors living below or next door might not appreciate the rush that “Brooklyn Nightlife” leaves you with, but Circus Circus has created an album that draws listeners to their feet. Prepare to jump, head-bang and go all out-Lancaster style.

If they had stereos, the Amish would be proud.

Grade: A-

Download (don’t steal): “Amputee Ball” by Circus Circus