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Norma Jean – Polar Similar (review)

George Archibald

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Norma Jean - polar similar

Norma Jean – Polar Similar

Reviewed by George Archibald

For Georgian Metalcore giants Norma Jean, Polar Similar marks their 7th studio release since their inception in 1997. The band is known for reinventing their sound on each studio album without abandoning the feel, which still follows the common mold of screaming/drone like vocals, heavy groove riffs, and blistering drums. The band has had high accolades in the past with a past Grammy Nomination for Best Recording Package on the O God, the Aftermath album. Polar Similar is a return to Solid State Records for the band, and hopes to follow up the success of Wrongdoers, which peaked the billboard 200 at number 37.

Polar Similar immediately reconnects you with the band and their distinct brand. The song “Forever Hurtling Towards Andromeda”, starts off with two quick guitar riffs before hitting a big note with a huge groove. The drums almost tribal like carry the track along with intensity keeping the song in line. This song will have you head bopping along with all the heavy grooves throughout.

The track “1,000,000 Watts” is probably my favorite track on the album. A very dark feel from the start with dissonant guitar and bends that cuts into a massive guitar riff. The song continues down the eerie path as the band bounces back and forth between the dissonance and the groove before the chorus break. Vocalist Cory Brandan Putman calls out “I feel bad that your angry, but I’m sorry. I don’t care for what it’s worth…”, which really sets the core feel of the song to me. Then the band goes into a drone-like breakdown to carry out the song.

Polar Similar has all the pieces that has made Norma Jean a great listen to in the past. Heavy Grooves and breakdowns, dissonant calmer parts which really lets the emotions flourish, coupled with fast intense drumming. If you are a fan of the band this will be a great addition to your collection, as it holds up well against the classic albums Bless the Martyr, Kiss the Child, and O God, the Aftermath. Polar Similar was released on September 9th, and is out now and available via Solid State Records and for streaming and download on Spotify and all the other usual outlets, check it out.

 

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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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