Delivering three punishing songs about oppression and betrayal, I can’t help but think that the COUNTDOWN demo is secretly about I-95. I base this on the fact that 1.) half of the band lives in Boston while the other half resides in New York. So in addition to Super Bowl parties, I imagine COUNTDOWN band practices are also rife with tension, aggravation, and geography-based name calling, and 2.) no doubt due to the endless 5-10 hour trips between home and practice, the band just recently broke up. However, all those hours trapped in CT traffic at least produced this CRO-MAGS inspired slice of old school hardcore that’s guaranteed to have you spin kicking your Saucony’s off in no time. The CRO-MAGS influence is not only heard in the breakdowns and drill sergeant-like vocals, but also in the sweet guitar solos peppered throughout. COUNTDOWN is comprised of some deftly talented players who are each given a moment to shine on this demo. Available for whatever you wish to pay on Bandcamp as well as on a 7” released through Flatspot Records this month, the COUNTDOWN demo is bound to wind up on many 2016 ‘best of’ lists so buy it now before you end up paying half a month’s rent for it on eBay next year.