I get the feeling - as is often the case with this kind of
blending - that the strengths are in live performances. We hear that kind of
thing a lot in the metal community when discussing a band that uses a clashing
of very different sounds - the kind that is so consistently polarizing opinions
among fans. One need only look at the reaction to Prodigy headlining Sonisphere
to see the truth in that. It is difficult one to review.
This is not the type of music I have an affinity with - I am one of those people
that cannot get to grips with genres that are so different colliding in this
way. However, that doesn't mean other people cannot and I think they really
will. This is clearly the culmination of hard, dedicated work in all areas,
regardless of anyone's own musical tastes. I write this knowing they are going on a
short tour in support of the release of this album and one of the dates is half
an hours drive from me, less than a week away at the time of writing. I am
gutted that I cannot attend because, as I said, I get the feeling the live show
would be very entertaining.
I read that Tribazik stated they are like a thrash band playing at a rave, or
something to that effect. I don't know, because I have not seen them live. I
only have sound as evidence, but being a thrash metal maniac, I cannot really
agree with that description. They are much more non metal than metal - they just
have a lot of underlying metal elements that are occasionally allowed to
dominate. It's not elitism - it is simply the case.
There are some lovely metal tones throughout, like 'Bloodline Crossbreed',
'Absence Of Proof' and the opening track, 'Too Dead To Care'. I find myself
inevitably focusing on the metal parts and more metal orientated songs more than
their counterparts that are heavily focused in other areas. Towards the end of
the album it gets more focused on traditional instruments and vocals, putting
the programming and synths aside to allow the overall sound to be predominantly
guitars, drums and vocals.
The bands musical proficiency and depth of the lyrical themes and vocal work
require no live performance for appreciation, again, a particular favourite
example being the aforementioned 'Absence Of Proof'.
Fans of this kind of fusion will not be disappointed. Those that are not, well,
check out their website and try to go to a live show. That's where I'd be next
week if I could.