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Despised Icon – Beast (review)

George Archibald

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Despised Icon – Beast

Despised Icon – Beast (review)

Reviewed by: George Archibald

 

Deathcore elite Despised Icon are back after a 7-year hiatus with the release of Beast.. This Montreal based outfit was at the forefront of the deathcore movement back in 2005, but packed it up and left the scene in 2010. Since that time several of the members were involved with other projects, most notably vocalist Alex Erian’s position in Obey the Brave. In 2014, the band reunited to play a handful of shows that were spread out over the next two years, before announcing in 2016 that a full length album was coming entitled Beast. This album marks the 5th studio release for Despised Icon over their 14 years of existence.

The album launches out of the gates with fury and intensity, the single “The Aftermath” starts off Beast with a blistering pace. With grinding hardcore styled guitars and the twin vocal assault of Alex Erian and Steve Marois. “The Aftermath” is a nod to the former days of Despised Icon. The track “Drapeau Noir”, starts with a black metal styled guitar riff, and Alex Pelletier’s fast paced drum furies, which makes him a stand out on this track. As well “Drapeau Noir”, throws in a classic hardcore two step section to make sure any pit will be moving along to this song.

Beast is a great album to reintroduce Despised Icon to a new group of metal listeners. Those who grew up listening to Despised Icon will not feel alienated by a new sound, while letting those new to the band enjoy the elements that has made Despised Icon a staple in the Deathcore community. Beast is full of hardcore/thrash riffs, two step breaks, tough guy break downs, and Despised Icon’s own signature pig squeals. Overall Beast is a great release by the band to really bring back the memories of the past, it’s a bit of nostalgia for me but in a great way. Despised Icon is back and looking to dominate once again.

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CD Reviews

ALICE IN CHAINS “BLACK GIVES WAY TO BLUE” VINYL REVIEW

Ron

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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

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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 

Ron

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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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