I love it when I put on an album with zero preconceived notions and it absolutely rattles me in a way that I can’t get enough of it. Recently that happened when Loma Prieta released their first album in eight years, Last. From the moment this album starts till the end, it will captivate you and compel you to keep listening as you find all sorts of nuances and intricate moments that leave you wanting more. For a band that’s been around for 20 plus years, you can tell that Loma Prieta still has a lot left to say.
Last is an album that takes many different shapes and turns. Their ability to shift from genres in songs is astounding and it pulls you in even more. Throughout this album there is no shortage of sonic assaults that push boundaries. The chaotic elements breathe musical life into the songs in a way that it’s almost poetic. The intensity that flows through this album is violent yet beautiful. It’s like watching a frozen rose crack. The beauty of it all is encapsulated within these 11 songs. There is a sense of ferocious urgency to songs like “NSAIDs,” “Dose,” and “Fire In Black & White.” Then there’s the songs that are more visceral and epic like “Symbiosis (my favorite on the album),” “Glare” “Dreamlessness” and the closing track “LLC.” I could elaborate more descriptively but, I really don’t want to give anything away.
The cross section of genres explored on Last stem from hardcore, post hardcore, noise rock, space rock and everything in between, shows that they have continuously evolved while still keeping true to their roots. The quiet to loud moments have a clarity that is reminiscent a bit of The Pixies with way more distortion. While the heavier moments hit with an explosiveness that would ignite a wildfire. Loma Prieta have delivered an album that not only hits it out of the park but, also gets down to the nitty gritty of life and the trials and tribulations. There is an intense emotion that soars throughout the album that shows truth and humanity in a way that so many other bands that strive for this, should take note of. Do yourself a favor and listen to this album! It’s without a doubt in my top 5 albums of the year!
There’s definitely something going on in the ether to bring these forces together. Intensity, aggression, and ferociousness are just some of the words that come to mind when describing the onslaught that Better Lovers have delivered with their debut EP, God Made Me An Animal. When it was first announced that Greg Puciato would be joining Jordan Buckley, Steve Micciche, Clayton “Goose” Holyoak and Will Putney in a new band, the chills that ran through me were astounding. The thoughts of what this new band is capable of is off the charts. The first taste of their offering with “30 Under 13” definitely left you wanting more. Then out of left field comes the raging brush fire that is their debut EP, God Made Me An Animal. The chaotic and frantically controlled 15 minutes of length that their EP runs is one hell of a journey that leaves you with the want for more but, also a sense that what’s coming next is going to smash your face in.
“Sacrificial Participant” sets the tone and pace of the release. It wastes no time as the riffs flow, rhythms pummel and vocals rip your throat right out. Then it goes right into “30 Under 13” which is an absolute ripper. “Become So Small” is a track with a sense of urgency to it with the way it grabs you and twists and turns you. This is one of those songs that live will for sure get the pit in a frenzy. Closing out the EP is the title track, “God Made Me An Animal.” This is my favorite track on this release. It’s a track that shows off different facets of what this band is capable of. The aggressive nature of the song is ripe throughout and the melodic sensibility gives it another element to chew on.
There is a relentless energy that is found throughout this EP that is similar to the bands that the members come from. Better Lovers expands upon some interesting ground that each band delved into and brings it more to the forefront. This is only a taste of what this band is and will become. As much as I would love to have The Dillinger Escape Plan and Every Time I Die back, Better Lovers is a solid step in the evolution of the members as a whole. Each person brings something interesting to the table and with enough time, I have a feeling that this band will take things to a whole other level.
I’m sure we’ve all heard albums that have left a last impression on ones self. Sometimes these albums take us to different places be it in our minds, imaginations, etc. Then there are times when an album comes out that hits you at the right moment in all the right ways and it makes it feel like everything will be ok because of that album. A couple months back the band Iress, released the song “Ricochet” off their now released and utterly spellbinding and superb EP, Solace. The moment I heard that song, I knew there was something more to it than just a “dark/moody vibe.” What I found was a band that sonically devastates while at the same time draws you in seductively. Iress’s new EP, Solace is a piece of art and music that hypnotizes you while the words and vocals crawl under your skin and gives you the type of chills that you might find when you reach that moment of clarity. The life that these songs breathe is astounding. One of the most intriguing factors about Iress is their ability to utilize atmosphere and space to balance out the heavy nature of the songs. It’s a feeling you will notice as you listen. Through all the darkness on these songs, the hope and light found throughout is breathtaking. The depths these songs take you and the place it leaves you in the end is the light at the end of the tunnel. Fronted by Michelle Malley (aka The Adele Of Doom) her vocals and guitar take you on quite a journey of love, loss, pain, and anguish all while the band Graham Walker (guitar), Michael Maldonado (bass) and Glenn Chu (drums) create the soundtrack to all this and add the right sonic elements the leaves you breathless. Another aspect that makes this release so damn good is the production. Producer/Engineer/Mixer Alex Estrada (Touche Amore, Joyce Manor, etc) makes this all come to life by capturing the raw and emotional charged performances of each member. There is no mistaking the magnitude that Iress puts out and with this EP it’s not even close to where their potential lays. I personally can’t wait to hear what else this band does and goes musically. Solace is not just a superb release, it’s my favorite release of 2023. Congratulations to all involved in the creation and release of this masterful EP. Iress is here and they are coming for you! You can pick up your copy of the EP now via the one and only Dune Altar Records (one of the best indie labels around)!
For over 20 years and now 8 studio albums in, Unearth has never let up. Their latest album, The Wretched / The Ruinous is 11 tracks of unrelenting heaviness and some interesting twists and turns that makes this album one that really stands out in their catalog. I will be honest, it’s been a minute since I really got into an Unearth album but, the moment this one started, there was something about this one that just felt different. While the album still has it’s “core” attributes, there is more depth to these songs that on previous albums.
The title track kicks off the album and it’s a full hard charging piece of work. It’s one of those songs that not only is a great track one but, you can tell this one is gonna be in the set list for a long time to come. One of the things that I enjoyed most about this album, is that while the band stays true to their sound, they are willing to take chances and change the formula just enough to make a difference. A track like “Mother Betrayal,” showcases this element as you can hear the band move into new territory that is almost along the spectrum lines of black metal. Then you have a song like “Broken Arrow” that explores more of a “rock” vibe but, still keeps the integrity of what Unearth is all about. Another song that steps a little outside the comfort zone like “Dawn Of The Militant” is a straight up classic metalcore track that features a classic breakdown that will get a crowd going full force in the pit for sure. Another component of this album that shines is that everything is building up to something more, just like an album should. On previous Unearth albums, there has been a lack of cohesion but, on this new one, you can definitely tell this is meant to be played from start to finish.
The Wretched / The Ruinous is a solid album that hits your in the face like a ton of bricks. On this album for Unearth, there is a definite sense of urgency and reignited fire burning throughout. Sometimes bands do need to change things up whether it’s members, producers, styles, etc. Those things can help to bring out the best at times and in the case of Unearth it sure made a difference. As a fan of the band especially during The Oncoming Storm and III: In The Eyes Of Fire, I can honestly say this is their best album since that time. Now, that’s not to say they output in between hasn’t been good, The Wretched / The Ruinous is just one of those albums that just goes a bit harder and feels like a band ready to get back out there and show the world why for over 20 years, Unearth has been a mainstay and one of the more consistent bands in the genre.
A few weeks back I was introduced to the band Common Wounds and from that point I’ve been hooked. At first I had only heard their song “Phantom Limb” but, that was enough for me to know that this was a band right up my alley. Their style of post-hardcore, part noise-rock and full on crushing rock is just what the rock world needs. The five songs that make up this fantastic EP, are hard charging, heavy and fully inspired songs. This is the type of record that when it ends, you immediately want to start it over. Common Wounds are the type of post-hardcore band that really gets it. They have the ability to mix the right amount of heavy with a side of emotional hardcore. Take the right parts of Fugazi and Rites Of Spring and add a bit of Helmet (Strap It On/Meantime era) and what you have is a recipe that Common Wounds have come storming out of the gate with. Each song on this EP, has a life of its own. There is a natural aggressive tone to it but, there’s also a bit of a melodic sensibility that gives the songs the space they need to explode. The production on this release is exceptional. Being able to hear the instruments with the right tones and having a mix that encapsulates the entire sound is the perfect harmony. It’s also very refreshing to hear a band like Common Wounds. There are so many bands out there that straight up copy their influences verbatim but, when you hear Common Wounds, it sounds inspired and fresh. I look forward to what Common Wounds have coming up and seeing this live. Do yourself a favor and take this EP for a spin!
It’s the beginning of 2023 and already a hard hitting banger of a release has been unleashed upon us! Arc Angles, one of my favorite bands I’ve championed since I started Audioeclectica have a new EP out called Daisy. It’s an unrelenting, pummeling force to be reckoned with. The in your face attitude that kicks in immediately will not only draw you in but might cause you to flip your desk or table and scream in a very therapeutic way.
The five songs on this absolutely direct and immediate release will stay with you for quite some time. The lyrics are thought provoking and interesting. The topics explored come with a depth and substance that many bands today, especially in the mainstream fail to recognize. Musically, there’s so much to delve into. Whether it be the odd time signatures, odd tunings, interesting melodies or the crisp and punch to the face mix (courtesy of Jawbox’s J. Robbins), the way everything comes together on Daisy is explosive as it is complex.
Arc Angles are a band that have taken the time to craft songs that play off their vast influences and have then created a sound that shines on it’s own merit. The way the record flows takes you on path that expands your mind both lyrically and musically. I love to hear a band challenge their listener to find little nuances in what they create to make the listening experience that much more special. Ever since I first heard these guys, it’s been a pleasure to listen to them evolve and further push the boundaries of what they are capable of. If this is the way we are going to start 2023 with, then I dare the rest of the music world to keep up with this!
The art of the album has been lost in recent years. Everyone seems so focused on the “single” that the lost art of making an actual album has sort of gone by the wayside. That’s not the case for the band and album I’m about to talk about. You’ve heard me talk a lot about Centershift in the past year and rightfully so. This band is making strides to not only become one of your favorites but, also took the time to really make an album that from start to finish you feel it all. Every ounce of emotion poured into one fantastical ride through the trials and tribulations of life and this is only their first full length album. Centershift’s debut album, A Different Shade Of Color marks a triumphant return of making great albums.
The release of A Different Shade Of Color was put out in parts/EP’s in order to get parts of the story a little at a time and make you wonder where the next part will take you. The first seven songs present a very raw and emotional context to where the story takes you. Starting with “9” the story begins with a revelation of one’s self and the search for a new discovery but, before that can fully happen, the whole story must be told. As “My Own World” starts to take shape, you the listener start to get immersed into what is happening. As the album continues and flows, more of the story comes out as songs like “Dry Well, “Tell Me,” “Couldn’t Tell,” and “Kingdoms” all fit a balance that have a fury to them that while still melodic, brings out a heaviness both lyrically and musically that grabs you and sinks it’s claws in. With those claws sharply dug in, the journey continues with a bit of an epiphany with the song “And So.” This track leads you down another interesting road as the story unwinds a bit and goes through all the phases one might go through when dealing with a volitile situation or grief. The stages you go through during those times come out quite present on songs like “From Where We Are,” “Falling Into,” “Arise,” and the very deep and dark “Everything And Nothing,” The latter being quite the mini epic that will give you chills in a way that you can only feel by listening. Rounding out this chapter is “What If” a song that leaves you with a question while at the same time sets up the final chapter. “After All” kicks off the third act and signals the change and the light starts to shine a bit brighter. While “1014” delivers a bit of a kick to the head of positivity that reminds you to let the past go and enjoy the life and light that has begun. “Here Like Always” is one of those songs that gives you hope but also has a sensitivity to it that shines like the sun finally coming out after a cloudy day. The ending song of the album “Fade Away” brings it all together, recapping the whole journey but instead of falling backwards and back into the dark, the fading away into the light brings that new joy and life that “9” brought about to start the whole album off.
A Different Shade Of Color is an album not just for 2022 it’s one of those albums that is much needed in today’s musical world. The way this album flows and hits you is spine tingling and eye opening. The album provides hope and choices without the sense of giving up. Singer/Guitarist Jasan Radford’s voice is still top notch and the way he delivers the lyrics are astounding. The clarity and enunciation of the words make them stand out when it matters most. Guitarist Ryan Shane Stuber adds so much texture and balance to the songs with his style of playing. And the rhythm section of bassist Ted Wenri and drummer(s) Stefan Storace (and Michael Tarabotto who plays on certain songs) is thunderous and shattering without being too overtaking of the delicate melodies that ring throughout the songs. Also, having Jim Wirt (Incubus, Onesidezero, Fiona Apple) behind the boards and producing this album definitely helped to keep it as real and raw as possible.
I highly recommend this album to anyone and everyone. There are so many different moments and songs on the album that you will love instantly and others that will sneak up on you and hit you like a ton of bricks. One thing is for certain, Centershift made one of the most honest and pure albums of 2022. Over the past weekend as well, Centershift celebrated the release of the album with a Live Stream event. The concert was full of energy and excitement. The way the 4 of them connect on stage and throughout the songs shows that the chemistry between them is in full effect. I personally love the way that you can listen to the songs on the album and feel one way about them, then when you hear these songs live, they take on a new life. If you haven’t seen Centershift yet, that’s something else I strongly suggest you do! Cheers to Centershift on one hell of an album. One that not only they can stand tall and be proud of but, for those of us that long for an actual album that start to finish connects!
A little over a month ago I introduced you to the band Faetooth. Their first single off their debut album “Echolalia” had just been released and what a treat that was. Now here we are on release day of their album Remnants Of The Vessel and HOLY HELL… What a debut record it is. The band is self-described as “fairy-doom” and it is most definitely a best of both worlds description. One one hand you have this thunderous and hard charging sound and on the other is this more delicate and dreamy style that echoes in the shoegaze realm with lush textures and soothing melodies and the occasional roar. Remnants of the Vessel is one of those debuts you will be talking about for some time.
Throughout the albums ten songs, you quickly realize that there is more to this band than meets the eye. The way the album flows it has a bit of a Neurosis vibe meets Chelsea Wolfe. The dark shrouded elements mixed with the glistening brightness adds to the tension of theses songs. When you listen you get pulled into quite a trance as the music guides and then the vocals and lyrics hit you. Something else about the way this album grabs you is the way Faetooth sinks their teeth into you bit by bit. When “that moment” comes, not only do they go in for the kill but they leave nothing left once they are done. Songs like “Echolalia,” “La Sorciere,” “Remains,” “Discarnate” and closing track “Saturn Devouring His Son” leave you utterly breathless. The sheer brute force that drives this album is on another level all together.
The musicianship among the four members is astounding. This band can not only play, they sure know how to write a song. I’m personally quite impressed that this is their debut album. After listening you’d think they’d been around for at least a few records. Faetooth are definitely not your run of the mill doom band. There is so much more and the deeper you delve into this album, the more you crave it.
Faetooth are without a doubt a band to watch out for. It’s been a minute since I’ve heard a debut album of this quality and precision. Do yourself a favor and sit down with this album and let it take you over. You won’t be sorry at the end. In fact, you are more likely to want to start it over once you reach the end because you are hooked and want more!
The new album by Dead Cross is one twisted and interesting ride. Made during a very turbulent time not just in the world but also personally for a couple of the members. Guitarist Michael Crain was diagnosed with cancer and progressing through chemotherapy while laying down his guitar lines. Singer Mike Patton developed severe agoraphobia and a bit of a drinking problem. That though didn’t interfere with Dead Cross delivering this thought provoking and pummeling record.
Their first output was a band finding their niche within all the genres and subgenres. This new album is a lot more focused and driven to make your head explode. Dead Cross II is more than just a blast of energy. It’s subject matter and lyrical approach does make you a bit more intrigued and you tend to listen a bit closer. It’s definitely an album that grows on you with each listen. The songs are more intricate and complex than the first album and I have to say too that having Justin Pearson’s vocals on more tracks adds a bit more “charm” to the album as a whole.
Through the nine songs and 35 minutes of this album you get an onslaught of brutality but with tinges of some fun things you’ll pick up on as you listen closely. One of my favorite tracks on the record is “Christian Missle Crisis.” This one has Justin on lead vocals and DAMN, this one goes HARD! Having the different vocal takes this song to a whole other level. Yes Patton is Patton but at times it’s too much Patton and you start to crave a bit more variety and that’s what makes Justin Pearson’s vocals stand out. Plus his delivery on this song is impeccable. My other favorite song on the album is “Reign Of Error.” Once you hear this one, you’ll understand why.
One thing that’s not to be dismissed about this album is the musicianship. Michael Crain’s guitar work on this album is superb. The tones and playing are top notch. There has always been an intensity to Michael’s playing (his days in Retox come to mind) but, he definitely seems to be channeling his cancer and treatment into this one and boy, does it pack quite the punch. Dave Lombardo is crushing on this album. His versatility as a drummer is on display here and it’s awesome. Justin Pearson’s bass rips through these songs with precision and razors and his vocals!!! One more thing to add about Dead Cross II and that is the production. While the first one is a bit more “raw” this one is more focused and concise, which actually makes for a better listen through. Dead Cross II is an album for the times that is for sure. It’s got almost everything you’d want and expect from those involved in this band and when it shines it makes you want to punch through glass (in a total good way). Hooray for ). Hooray for a new and anticipated Dead Cross album. I’m sure the live show this go round (when that time comes) will be one hell of a trip!
Lamb Of God are one of those bands that when you hear them, you know it’s them. There is such a distinctive sound to them that it is quite recognizable. Throughout their career they’ve found what works for them and doesn’t. Their 2020 self titled album saw a member change and the resulting album while good was a very safe introduction to Art Cruz becoming a full time member. Now, in 2022, Lamb Of God has thrown that safeguard away and taken steps to make an album that is urgent and representative of where the band is headed. Now, I’m not saying Lamb reinvented the wheel, this is still Lamb doing Lamb but, this time, it’s different and it feels fresh and evolving.
Omens was recorded live as a band (you know the way records used to be made) and that vibe is felt through all 10 songs and 41 minutes of this pure, unapologetic and vicious album. This album definitely feels like it’s the record that they wanted to make but also had to make. The varying styles and influences heard on Omens stretches further than they have gone before. It’s more impactful and immediate than previous albums. There is a sense that everyone in the band has a say in these songs and that energy radiates through the entire album.
There are plenty of songs on Omens worth mentioning so, I will pick a few of my favorites to entice you a bit. Kicking off the album is “Nevermore” a song that is the epitome of what a Lamb Of God song is. It has everything a fan of this band loves and then some. “Vanishing” is one of those songs that shows a bit of the bands evolution sonically as the tones on this track are ripping. Not to mention that Randy’s vocals on this are damn near punishing. Track number 4 “Ditch” is my favorite on the album (as of this writing). This song is a banger through and through. It’s got this huge anthemic feel to the way the vocals are, then you add in the music which grooves but also decimates as it goes. I have a feeling that if/when this song is added to the bands set list in the future, the pits will erupt. “Gommorah” is epic and heavy. Personally, I’d have loved to hear this one go on a little longer as it shows more of the band evolving and getting more intricate in how they craft a song. This is another that needs to be added to the set list. “Grayscale” is a straight up barn burner. It’s got a total punk rock vibe to it while still being a classic Lamb song. Ending the album is “September Song” a track that is possibly one of the best the band has ever written. It’s song that is the perfect culmination of what Omens is all about. I love the dynamic shifts on this song.
Omens is Lamb Of God spreading their wings a bit more and in a very welcome way. There are always going to be the songs on the album that hark back to the “classic” sound but, now there is a better feel to the band. Art Cruz is finally able to show why he was picked to replace Chris Adler. His energy is found constantly on these songs and it’s very welcomed. Randy Blythe has not just grown as a vocalist, his screams sound great and his lyrics have reached new heights of being introspective whether personal or taking on topical subject matter. John Campbell continues to be a thunderous secret weapon of the band. His tone and style really ties it all together. Mark Morton and Willie Adler continue to be one of the best guitar duos in rock/metal. Mark seems to be even more motivated than ever to push himself to add different flairs to the songs making them memorable and crushing. All in all, Omens is a record new and old Lamb Of God fans will enjoy. The future is bright for Lamb as they continue to be torch bearers for the metal community.
