I've never heard of Canadian grindcore freaks Mesrine or German Depression before. This is a relatively new split LP between the two, but the material is actually not that new. It was recorded back in late 2003. Mesrine plays some ferocious and energetic grindcore, but nothing that hasn't done or heard before. The music is okay, but nothing that scream for multiple listens.

I like the deep growls, but the manic shouting does quickly get too much. The production is raw and filthy, but it suits the music and oddly enough it doesn't become blurry or anything. None of the songs seem really memorable or the least catchy for that matter, and that is probably my biggest problem with this kind of music. It simply doesn't have that appeal that for instance Nasum, Brutal Truth or Napalm Death has.

German Depression has one of the most awkward line-ups I've seen in a long time. The band consists of three vocalists [if you count the screaming from drummer, guitarist, and bassist Kai Sattelkau in]. So in a way this is more or less a one-man band with regard to the music itself, though vocalist Marc Miekeley did play guitar and bass on the track "Farewell". The music is death metal meets grindcore with some often very clear references to hardcore, too obvious I would say.

The songs are mostly very mid-tempo-like, but the pace occasionally quickens adding some variation, however the material is still very mediocre and quickly becomes rather dull. Despite several listens none of the songs sounded really interesting. The production is fairly good and lets the listener hear what's going on, and that of course add on the positive side. All in all this is a decent, but average release that ought to please fans of the bands or serve as an taster for those unfamiliar with Mesrine and Depression.