The Sword @ Troubadour, 3/12

Depending on who you speak to, The Sword has either saved or euthanized the genre of metal. Both sides have a point: critics point to the band's decidedly nonmetallic roots -- dare I say "emo" -- and accuse the band of bandwagon-hopping, while supporters insist 2006's Age of Winters (Kemado) was a lone bright spot during a down year for the art form. I must admit that I too had mixed emotions about the Austin, TX quartet: while I chose to include their debut on my Best of 2006 list, I included several jabs at their dubious provenance. This tumult was settled once and for all, however, after I watched The Sword's bassist accost and chastise a member of their audience for moshing during an opener's set. Not only did this confirm that the group were nothing more than gussied up charlatans, but it spoke to a larger point: they themselves did not understand the social mores of the scene to which they now belonged. Now I'll let you decide for yourself just how disingenuous these Johnny Come Lately's are, but be warned ... no slam dancing, skanking, or pogo-ing. It may have a good beat, but you're sure as hell not allowed to dance to it. (ZH)
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