Canadian "progressive thrash" legends Propagandhi join the Epitaph roster with their 2012 album Failed States, just in time for their politically engaged anthems to form a soundtrack to that magical theatrical production known as the US elections. Failed States is the band s sixth album, and their second as a fourpiece with the addition of Dave "The Beaver" Guillas on guitar. This has led to a distinctive thickening and fortifying of the band s sound, to the point where they now achieve maximum heaviness, in a good way. For example, in past years, their live show has been described as both "alright" and "ok. " With the addition of The Beaver to the arsenal, it is now being hailed as "decent" and "satisfactory. " This is most definitely the best Propagandhi album yet, full of loud, fast, indignant songs that stick in your head.