Bite Me! CD Reviews A - F
A Day to Remember – For Those Who Have
Heart (Victory Records)
¾
The energy of lead off track “Fast Forward to 2012” caught me immediately, along with the melodic vocals and guttural ones playing off the melody. Powerful bass and drum lines with crunching guitars provide the drive. Alternately brutal and beautiful, the songs on For Those Who Have Heart have a sing-along quality that you can see legions of kids shouting out in your mind. Almost a more hip, younger, less industrial Fear Factory. In the bio, the description “melodic chaos” is used and very appropriate. “Colder Than My Heart, If You Can Imagine”, “Speak Of The Devil” and “Show 'Em The Ropes” are some of the many highlights of this CD. -J
All the Way Rider – Lahuna
(Blue Worm Records) ½
I’m a bit sad I let this CD sit around so long, I like these guys. All the Way Rider sounds like early Jimmy Eat World, Hot Water Music, some Knapsack and maybe a titch of Ataris meets math rock. Great lyrics, hooks and versatility with fat guitar sounds, and vocals that work at the front of the mix and denote enough angst for the music. Production is crisp and clean. Some of the songs tend to go on a little long, but as a full length album all the parts work well together. Highlights: “Luxembourg”, “The Validity of Colette”. –J
Altered State – Get Real
(Altered State)
Altered State reminds me of a bunch of bands I followed when I was in junior high/high school. Because our friends were in them, we thought they were pretty cool, especially with the lyrics (that meant something to us at the time). Looking back, those bands were really pretty shitty – but they still got laid which I guess was the whole point, really. Now, to date myself, this was back in the early 80’s, which gives you an idea of Altered State’s rock sound. Yes it is very dated, especially with the guitar solos in almost each “rocking” song. When they aren’t doing the cheese, lead singer Lorna Dowell is doing her best Linda Perry impersonation (which is Altered State’s best bit). -J
Asono – One Man Army
(Fishface Records)
Riding the Great Britain bandwagon coattails of Franz Ferdinand and The Killers comes Asono. Hearing lead singer Jonny Ross, all I could think of was Brett Michaels from Poison (especially “Something to Believe In”). This six song ep really best showcases the lead vocals, but you can hear plenty of guitar noodling as well. Musicianship is fine, it just isn’t connecting with me in any way. It’s very theatrical and somewhat over the top, but not really in a good way. Not my cuppa. -J
Atreyu – Lead Sails Paper Anchor
(Hollywood Records)
1/2
Atreyu has grown by leaps and bounds as songwriters. Over the years the band has shown no fear when it comes to experimenting with their sound. Lead Sails Paper Anchor presents a new style as the band gets adventurous with melodies and exotic instrumentation. Veterans of the metalcore scene, Atreyu spice things up by incorporating Turkish Saz, trumpets, strings, piano, pedal steel guitar, and lots of dynamic tempo changes into the mix. This exultant disc incorporates influences of 80’s metal, thrash, industrial, hardcore, alternative, and a bit of alt country. The album starts off with the thrashing, grooving riffs of “Doomsday”. Brutally heavy “Can’t Happen Here” starts with an arsenal of machine gun riffs that reminds fans of the band’s roots, as do the massive grooves and sinister beats of “Becoming the Bull”. “Honor” reflects Atreyu’s new transition. The rockabilly riff of “Falling Down” gives way to a chorus of blaring horns and harmonized vocals. Buckcherry’s Josh Todd guest vocals on the 80’s metal inspired “Blow” and as an added bonus the guys throw in a cover of Faith No More’s “Epic”. -NIN
Big D and the Kids Table – Strictly Rude
(Side One Dummy Records)
Big, big hooks - the riffs sound so familiar…are they, um, borrowed from elsewhere? Derivative? Who cares? Yeah, it’s Ska without anything new. But hell, it’s fun. A bit of Specials, a touch of Madness, definitely some Bosstones and then a smidge of Rancid and you’ve got Big D and the Kids Table. Big horns, silly attitude, and a dose of humor fill Strictly Rude. Strictly Fun. -J
Blaqk Audio – CexCells
(Interscope / Tiny Evil) 3/4
When I first heard that Davey Havok & Jade Puget of AFI fame were working on this project I was intrigued. When the review copy arrived I could barely curb my enthusiasm…much to my surprise CexCells was better than I expected. This deliciously dark disc kicks off with a tribute to Depeche Mode title “Stiff Kittens”. In fact, the DM influence runs deep throughout the album and appears again in “The Fear of Being Found” - with its soft chorus and dreary background it’s a Martin Gore production through & through. On a similar note “Between Breaths” is a goth boy’s wet dream. The flurry of electronic beats in “Snuff on Digital” makes me long for the dance floor. “Where Would You like Them Left” is a throwback to 80’s new romanticism that borrows the classic line from Adam Ant’s “Strip”. The Rave friendly beats of “On a Friday,” “Semiotic Love,” and “Again, Again, and Again” will have you breaking out the glow sticks. Davey & Jade’s dedication to 80’s New Wave/New Romanticism is commendable. The layered keyboards and atmospherics of Cex Cells are complimented by well programmed beats. It’s moody synth pop with a kick. I’m looking forward to the follow up. -NIN
Casket Salesmen – Sleeping Giants
(Longhair Illuminati)
“I’ll Buy That For A Dollar” is very QOTSA, I’m impressed. The the next song is really theatrical (read: kinda cheesy) but technically precise – it’s obvious these guys have chops but, WTF are they DOING with them?? I get the feeling bong hits were definitely involved here. As Sleeping Giants continues along, that feeling has turned into a certainty, and I am unfortunately sober. It is interesting though. A little reminiscent of Pink Floyd here (“Shanghai Sally”), some Santana meets Redd Kross there (“The Anaheimlich Maneuver”). Whoa. Totally original, totally in their heads, and totally out there. -J
Chrome Pistola – Information War
(Mindless Records) 3/4
Hailing from Venice, CA, Chrome Pistola creates a mix of dancehall, rap, rock, and R&B. Laid back in the vein of Bubba Sparxx, Everlast or Gnarles Barkely, yet fiercely lo-fi independent, Chrome Pistola is fresh as hell. “Belly of the Beast” will be stuck in my head for weeks – what a song! Other highlights “Forget Yesterday”, “Do You Feel Better Now?”, “Victimize Yourself”. Sample lyric: “Oblivion called, and I accepted the charges”. Nice. -J
Collide – Two Headed Monster
(NoisePlus)
Not only are Statik & kaRIN amazing individuals, they are exceptional musicians as well, and Two Headed Monster is proof. Collide has been creating music since 1992, and the independent darkwave/industrial unit’s sound has evolved since. Each album (all on the duo’s NoisePlus imprint) has always been a unique and enjoyable listening experience. The latest, Two Headed Monster, is nothing like the past. The record incorporates a variety of elements and styles, yet still retains the group’s signature hypnotic sound. A lot has happened since Collide’s last release, 2003’s ‘Some Kind of Strange’, and perhaps those experiences contributed to Two Headed Monster’s adventurous nature. A perfect example is “Chaotic” – with its propelling energy, dark electronics, and collision of beats this track best represents the twosome coming into their own. Statik knows the value of dynamics and interesting changes and his assured songcraft is matched by the versatility of kaRIN’s voice, which can be bold, childlike, dreamy, and sultry depending on the mood of the song. Her childlike musings add a bit of innocence to “A Little Too Much,” which soon transition into a sweet whisper that floats over trippy guitar strummings and dreamy electronics. The variety continues with the electro trip-hop inspired “Spaces In Between”. “Head Spin” is a catchy, playful tune that derives its character from Middle Eastern textures and a sizzling beat that pops. KaRIN’s dreamy vocals glide over the rich tapestry of the album’s title track, and the grand finale arrives with “Utopia”. With its beautifully layered electronics and buzzing guitars this bold and dreamy piece will transport you into a tranquil state of mind. It makes for a perfect ending because when it’s over you feel like you just experienced something amazing. Tool’s Danny Carey and Curve’s Dean Garcia lent their creative talents to a few songs, and I’m sure they are proud to be associated with such a fine offering. Two Headed Monster is a high quality work of art that deserves attention. Hear for yourself and pick up a copy at www.collide.net. While you’re there, take a virtual tour of Statik’s studio and do some holiday shopping from kaRIN’s ‘Saints and Sinners’ collection. -NIN
The Condors – Wait For It
(Outsider 2) 3/4
If your sick of all the cookie cutter bullshit and uninspiring pabulum then treat yourself to a massive dose of The Condors’ Wait For It. Playing music from the heart the power-pop rock quartet march to the beat of their own drum; thus, eschewing all fads and trends aside. The albums cleverly crafted cover is supported by equally clever tunes. Sporting references from the L.A. music scene the albums tracks take you through a day in the life. Fueled by solid musicianship and witty lyrics, these upbeat rockers leave you feeling without a care in the world. Handclaps are the focal point in the incredibly catchy “Kiss That Girl Away”. The meaty guitar solo of “Something Better Coming Soon” proves that these guys are not amateurs. Ya gotta love a song that is titled “Don’t Want A Girl Who’s Been With Jack”. It’s the quintessential Hollywood tune. The anthemic chorus of “She’s Not the Girl for Me” can easily be changed to “He’s Not the Guy for Me”. And, like any good album should Wait For It ends on a high note with “Wake Up”. The alum’s pitch perfect rock anthems and retro style are a refreshing change. Wait For It is the perfect remedy for a bad day. It’s hard to be blue while listening to these tunes. -NIN
Critical Bill – Downtown The World
(Westbound Records)
1/2
Even though Rap-metal is no longer the “it” sound Critical Bill is a solid reminder why the genre was once so popular. The Detroit based urban rock outfit keeps it real on Downtown The World. No bullshit, no filler just loads of solid metal riffs, a pounding rhythm section, and a vocalist that is menacing one moment and spews out the smoothest rhymes the next. The album melds hip-hop & rap elements with a hard rock edge and will easily please any fan of either genre. Put Critical Bill on your watch list. They are one of the better unappreciated acts out there. Highlights: “The Ride,” “Get High,” “Need to Know” and “This is Critical”. -NIN
The Cure –
4:13
Dream
(Geffen)
4:13 Dream is The Cure’s 13th studio album and first in four years (hence the 4:13). Originally slated as a double release, 4:13 Dream delivers an eclectic mix of guitar heavy pop fused with the band’s distinct edge. Honest and raw, this beautifully romantic disc begins with the wistfully, dark “Underneath the Stars”. From there Smith takes listeners on a journey that examines relationships, politics, and religion. The Cure’s poppy past surfaces on the incredibly fun “The Only One”. “The Reasons Why” harkens back to the Wish era. The unconventional nature of “Freakshow” is funky and fun. “Siren Song” is a dreamy piece. “Switch” is an adventurous tune that is reminiscent of Pornography days. “The Real Snow White” is an upbeat piece, “The Perfect Boy” a beautiful ballad, and “Sleep When I’m Dead” is another great that harkens back to the band’s glory days. 4:13 Dream ends strong with the incredibly heavy “It’s Over”. The album proves why The Cure has survived four decades. The group continues to evolve musically, and has delivered a strong release that will easily become as a top fav among fans. -NIN
FALLenSLeepless – In Seething Dreams
(Round 3 Records) 1/2
You know those bands that play at your local club that you are dragged to see because someone has a crush on one of the guys, and not because they’re very good but they still have a following or are responsible so they get booked? FALLenSLeepless sounds to me like every “wanna be on a record label” band from the early 90’s (and Lord knows, I booked a few). Hard to scream out “you suck” to a CD, but this is beyond derivative - the lead singer has a one-note voice, there’s no vision, mediocre musicianship and songwriting. All in all, it’s really boring, good to ignore and drink to while waiting for the headliner. -J
Filter – Anthems for the Damned
(Pulse Recording)
Filter’s Anthems for the Damned finds Richard Patrick in a more serious mood. The album lacks the confidence of Title of Record and the cockiness of Short Bus. More along the lines of Army of Anyone, Anthems is a reflection of Patrick’s life and life in general. Meticulously crafted and expertly produced, this mid-paced offering finds the band in a more mature state and perhaps it’s just a reflection of the times. Former bassist Frank Cavanagh is currently serving as a Sergeant in Iraq and “Soldiers of Misfortune” is a tribute to him and all the other brave souls fighting for our country. The fiery “What’s Next” is what one would expect from Filter, while “Cold (Anthem for the Damned)” is a mid-paced acoustic rocker. “The Take” is an intensely aggressive piece in which Patrick vents his anger and takes the listener on an exciting journey. “Only You,” which is reminiscent of “Miss Blue,” is a melancholy piece that segues into a six minute ambient instrumental titled “Can Stop This”. Anthems for the Damned may take some time to digest. If so, Remixes for the Damned may just be what the doctor ordered. Filter’s next release is rumored to be more on the industrial electronic side. Let’s hope it doesn’t take 6 years to manifest. -NIN