CD Reviews

Norma Jean – Polar Similar (review)

Published

8 years ago

September 11, 2016

George Archibald

Norma Jean – Polar Similar

Reviewed by George Archibald

For Georgian Metalcore giants Norma Jean, Polar Similar marks their 7^th 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 9^th, 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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George Archibald

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CD Reviews

BUSH 30th ANNIVERSARY OF “SIXTEEN STONE” VINYL

Published

3 days ago

November 20, 2024

Ron

I remember when this album came out in 1994 . I was 15 and really discovering all types of music. As being a typical teenage boy I seen the band name “Bush” and thought hmm I love bush, let’s check it out. It was such an amazing album from beginning to end.

The new released vinyl that just came out on November 17th is such a testament to this album being as great then as it is now. Listening to the vinyl just brought back so many memories of being an angst teenager that just wanted to heard. The vinyl package is amazing with lots of photos of the band throughout the years and the sound of the vinyl is so pristine.

I got my hands on the opaque red vinyl and just looks awesome spinning on the player. It’s crazy to think that this album has so many hits and no filler songs, even the songs that didn’t become hits are just as good as the hits.

With the hits being “Glycerine”, “Everything Zen” , “Comedown” “Little Things” and “Machinehead” but some of my favorite songs are not the hits songs like “Swim”, “Bomb” and “Alien” which is probably my favorite song on the album. If you’re a fan of Bush or this album or just want to dive into the mid 90s Grunge/Post Grunge era this is a key album to have in your collection.

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Ron

Ron has keen eye for new talent, a love for the underground, and a tremendous passion for music of any genera. You’ll probably bump into him at a horror convention or some seedy club checking out the next need-to-know band.

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CD Reviews

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

Published

2 months ago

October 3, 2024

Ron

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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Ron

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CD Reviews

VENDED: Album Review

Published

2 months ago

September 20, 2024

JJ Ulizio

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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JJ Ulizio

JJ has been a contributing writer and huge asset to Empire and Empire Extreme since the very begining. He is always digging for new bands and has a true heart and desire to see the bands grow and succeed.

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