As the semester draws to a close, concert promoters are looking to get the best acts to… As the semester draws to a close, concert promoters are looking to get the best acts to Pittsburgh to finish out the year. This Saturday, during Pitt’s Thanksgiving break, the Hoods National Tour, featuring the Hoods, Seventh Star, Haste the Day, Lexus Jumps and Dead Even will be a killer event for those in town.

Hoods are a Victory Records band known for their old-school hardcore sound. It’s all about brutality and heaviness, as these boys will rock you to Russia and back with their trademark sound.

Seventh Star is another hardcore act, on Facedown Records. Their sound is very reminiscent of old-school hardcore heroes Another Victim, with a deep, growly voice fronting the heavy guitars. The breakdowns will have you moshing with the best of them.

Haste the Day is a metalcore act from Indianapolis. Upon first listen, vocalist Jimmy Ryan could wow you much like Dan Weyandt of Pittsburgh’s own Zao. The music is fast, the vocals are tenacious, and it’s all about the brutality.

Lexus Jumps could go down as one of the most interesting bands on the Pittsburgh scene. The band transcends all genres and pulls out all the stops. Whether it’s hardcore, emo, metalcore, or even funk, Lexus Jumps touches it all. Their songs vary from heavy numbers to soulful breakdowns that you don’t see coming. This is one act that no one in Pittsburgh should ever miss, especially considering they’re a local talent.

Dead Even is a mathy metalcore band in the style of the Dillinger Escape Plan and Meshuggah. The best part about math-rock or -metal is that you never know what is coming next. The tempos and beats are very stop-and-go; one minute, you’re bobbing your head to one rhythm, the next, it has already changed time signatures. Confusing, yet awesome.

This will be a fine show for anyone around here for Thanksgiving break. There’s nothing finer than sharing a turkey leg with your family, then dropping into the mosh pit for a night or two. Be prepared for a brutal and amazing show showcasing some great new talents.

Hoods, Seventh Star, Haste the Day, Lexus Jumps and Dead Even will play at the Rex Theatre on the South Side on Sat., Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. For more information, call (412) 381-6811.