CD Reviews
The Depression Sessions (The Acacia Strain, Thy Art is Murder, and Fit For An Autopsy)
The Depression Sessions:
The Acacia Strain, Thy Art is Murder, and Fit For An Autopsy
Review by George Archibald
What do you get when three of the nastiest bands in metal decide to collaborate with each other, The Depression Sessions EP. The Acacia Strain, Thy Art is Murder, and Fit For An Autopsy, contributed 2 songs each, one original and one cover, to the split that was released August 12th. This EP has been in the works for some time; this is possibly Thy Art is Murder’s former vocalist Chris McMahon last work with the band, before exiting the band earlier this year.
To lead off the promotion of the album, a music video was made for Thy Art Is Murder’s “They Will Know Another.” TAIM’s themes range from war, to poverty, to environmental issues on this song. This is possibly one of the best TAIM songs, written with as much substance as well as aggression.
The Acacia Strain’s rendition of Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun”, puts an eerie play on the classic song about the end of the world. The band transferred the song over to 8 string guitar, which puts the song in a lower register, making the song into a very bass line driven track. With the addition of vocalist Vincent Bennett’s growling vocal style, this song takes a on new life of its own.
A stand out on this album is Fit For An Autopsy’s take on Nine Inch Nails’ “The Perfect Drug.” The original song had minimal guitars in the mix, as much of the song is electronic programming from Trent Reznor. Fit For An Autopsy takes the rhythms from the original song, and injects their own flare to them. Again, another band that uses extended range instruments, the song has hints of a lower bass line that drives forth the emphasis in the song.
Overall this EP is exciting if only for the factt hat all three of these bands have been busy writing new material. The only song that seems to miss the mark for me is TAIM’s rendition of Rammstein’s “Du Hast.” It seemed a bit lackluster in effort due to the simplicity of the song which in comparison to their other contribution to the album may have been one of the best pieces of music they have written collectively.
The Depression Sessions is currently available from Nuclear Blast and streaming on Spotify. If you are a fan of these bands this is a definite must have.
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CD Reviews
ALICE IN CHAINS “BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE” VINYL REVIEW
Alice In Chains have Re-Released the 2009 album on vinyl. This album was the first Alice In Chains in 14 years and the first album with guitarist/singer Willam DuVall after Layne Staley passed away in 2002.
I was a huge Alice In Chains fan and was a big fan of both Layne and Jerry. When this album first came out I remember sorta pushing it the side only cause of sadness about Layne but after hearing “Check My Brain” I gave it a chance and was so glad that I did. This album is amazing and really put Alice In Chains back into the mainstream.
The vinyl not only looks super awesome but sounds amazing. If you’re a fan of Alice In Chains and into collecting Vinyl, this album is a must in your collection. It’s a great packed vinyl with 2 vinyls included.
Side A: All Secrets Known, Check My Brain and Last of My Kind. Side B: Your Decision, A Looking in View. Side C: When The Sun Rose Again, Acid Bubble, Lesson Learned. Side D: Take Her Out, Private Hell, Black Gives Away To Blue
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CD Reviews
VENDED: Album Review
9/20/24 sees the independent release of the full-length, self-titled debut album from Des Moines, Iowa natives Vended. Featuring vocalist Griffin Taylor, Simon Crahan on drums, Jeremiah Pugh on bass, Cole Espland on lead guitar, and Connor Grodzicki on rhythm guitar.
On this album they have taken more abrasive elements of nu metal as seen in the late 90s from bands like Slipknot and Soulfly and utilized elements of metalcore to slap a fresh coat of paint on the style. There are elements that remind me of the more modern and spastic styles of nu metal, similar to a band like Tallah.
Griffin’s vocal styling showcases mid-range screams as the main driving force bending the vocals. True to the nu metal elements, the rage and anger perceived from the screams are offset by the occasional catchy riff or fast talking, almost rapping stylized lyrics.
Crahan shows an impressive command of rhythm with his double bass drum. Driving each track forward with a machine gun-like purpose, which makes the more groove-oriented parts hit much harder. Crahan, in addition to the rest of the rhythm section (Espland and Pugh), all really work together well to keep the momentum moving forward while not sacrificing said groove.
While I wouldn’t call it album of the year or anything. It’s definitely worth checking out. Standout tracks: “Nihilism” and “The Far Side”.
Vended can be found on the usual socials. And the album is available on all streaming platforms. And physical copies can be purchased though https://www.officialvended.com
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CD Reviews
DevilSkin “Surfacing” EP
It’s been 4 years since Devilskin’s last album, “Red.” The New Zealand band has followed up with their new EP, “Surfacing.”
This 6-song EP starts off with “Whale Song,” which just rocks and puts you right in the mood for what Devilskin is going to bring. I love Jennie Skulander’s voice; it works perfectly with the tone and grittiness of the album.
The EP has two covers on it. “Barracuda,” which we reviewed before and is a great cover song. The band also takes a swing at Dio’s “Holy Diver.” I am pretty critical about anyone covering Dio. Most bands try too hard to sound like Ronnie, which doesn’t always work out. However, I like this cover because the band takes their own path when covering it and makes it their own.
“Let Me Breathe,” “Insects,” and “Unborn” round up the rest of the EP. Which makes the EP a great listen from beginning to end. There has been a great resurgence of bands coming from New Zealand that kick ass. DevilSkin is on top of that list of bands. I hope that they make it over to the US soon so we can get a chance to check them out live. If you’re into a great rock EP and want to listen to something new and fresh, I recommend checking out this EP.
THIS IS A SPONSORED REVIEW BROUGHT TO YOU BY TAG PUBLICITY
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