Labels: Carmen Diablo
Review by: Andy Malcolm
Very impressive 4 track 7″ (on clear vinyl) from this German band. I had their demo tape lying around somewhere but never got round to listening to it more than once, so I was glad to get a chance to listen to them on a proper release.
Side A has the two best songs, kicking off with the groove driven “Cincinnati Kid Message”. Rolling post-hardcore emo that sways back and forth, pushing onwards courtesy of the alternating vocals. I’d say this band definitely has a few records from the Lovitt back catalogue as they remind me of a less screamy 400 Years, possessing the same darkly melodic touch as that band. “Car versus Driver” (heh!) starts off with a lovely, twinkling introduction. Light drumming and soft guitars lull you into a false sense of security before things start picking up the pace suddenly, the vocals more urgent yet not as abrasive this time. Later in the song it explodes into life all of a sudden, bringing back the hoarser vocals of the previous song, and the more aggressive guitar work. This style is very similar to that which Engine Down had on their first album.
The flip begins with a long sample, an electronic hum, and a few additional noises. Nothing really happens here. After that is “Like Through The Red Sea” which is by far the most aggressive track on here, guitars really kick in and vocals are screamier. Only let down is that it’s a little short. Reminds me of a tamer Orchid for some reason! And Shotmaker.
After hearing so few great European records for a long time, I’m now starting to pick up some really good ones. I guess this is not particularly ground breaking, but it is well worth checking out if you’re into the records that Lovitt put out.