There’s a whole bevy of quality South American underground metal bands coming out of the woodwork as of late. Brazilian rockers Livin Garden is included in the list. The band unveil its sophomore release, Bring It On, through the Digmetalworld Records (digmetalworld.com) distribution label, who specialize in distributing these types of NWOSAHM (New Wave Of South American Heavy Metal) bands. For a band hailing from Brazil, Livin Garden atypically has the North American modern rock sound down to a T. They closely walk the path of bands such as Black Water Rising, Alter Bridge and others. CD opener, “Rock n’ Roll State Electric,” is a rumbling modern rocker, recalling a slightly heavier GN’R or Alter Bridge. A Western gunslinger vibe is present on “Bring It On.” The slow, sludgy, “punch-your-fist-in-the-air” riffs adds to the dynamic pace of the tune. The powerful, modern rock ballad, “Sing My Soul,” creates an infectious mood with its soaring vocal harmonies. “Let It Bleed” picks up the pace a little with blistering riffs and a heavy gallop. “Deep Waters” ventures into typical ’80s-sounding power ballad mode. But with its heartfelt vocal delivery and pristine harmonies, the song has some creative charm. I can see the appeal that Livin Garden could bring to North American radio. However, they rely too heavily on this familiar radio-friendly modern rock sound, most notably on “Out Of Range.” Livin Garden does possess some talent though, and it’ll be interesting to see where they take this experience with their next album.