This issue is a rather short one, covering a band which I've only just discovered in the last few days.

They are Amplifier, an alternative / progressive rock trio from Manchester, UK. For a three-piece band with only 2 full length albums under their belt they have a huge, solid sound with a good range of variety in their songs. Their super fat guitars remind me of a cross between the early 90's sound of The Smashing Pumpkins, the presence of Porcupine Tree, and the bass, digital effects and riff wizardry of Tool. Pretty damn good combination right there I think!

According to their entry on Wikipedia, Amplifier have toured with bands such as Deftones, Opeth, and Porcupine Tree. They have also finished recording on their 3rd studio album which should be released in the coming months - something to keep an eye out for.

I don't have any players to embed in this issue, so head on over to the Amplifier page on last.fm to listen to their top 10 most played songs. I've been playing them a bit and would love to pick up their albums! Dear Santa... :)