Art of Chaos' latest record, "Crimson and Catharsis", is a dynamic and versatile five-song EP from the L.A. based thrash/metal troupe. Love is the topic, of course, in "Coward". AOC sings 'say it straight to me, don't you lie to me, and say that you miss me' in the face of losing a woman to another man after long-stated promises of marriage and future. It's the man's equivalent of Morisette's 'You Oughta Know'. "The King Must Die" exemplifies this musically and lyrically as the tune begins with acoustic piano before launching into politically charged anthem. Vocals are emotional and delivered with conviction. Guitar work, in particularly the solo word, conjures memories of Slash and guitar-hero days, while the overall production is just on this side of demonic. Social opinion continues in ,"Start to Try", and the band repeats the phrase, 'you tell me it's ok when it's not', through scenarios that encourage the listener to analyze their own lives in a myriad of topics, 'if you give a damn about this world'. "Wake Me" showcases the ultra-tenor lead vocals against a more subdued but energetic backdrop. "For People Just Like Us" is similar in texture - the intro is clean guitar with a heart-felt vocal performance that makes way for a gradual build. It's the most radio-friendly of the CD. The band has focused on melody and song structure and has produced a fine representation of their current state. There's enough angst to satisfy both the head-banging and head-contemplating set of rock music lovers.