Labels: self released
Review by: MH
I seem to keep getting caught out lately by returning 90s bands that I haven’t got round to listening to previously. This time it is Porch who formed in the early 90s and there is history in Primus and Today Is The Day amongst the band members. From what I have read there was an 18-year hiatus until 2011 so this one follows relatively hot on the heels of their last release. You could be forgiven for thinking you’re listening to some Shores-style slowcore for the first three and a half minutes of this but for the most part this is some angular and twisty post hardcore although that slower style comes back in frequently as they veer between the two styles. Early highlight “Dickhead” blends the slowcore with the heft very nicely and next song “Ballad Of Cruelty” is a sad, slow burner. This is the song that initially grabbed me on early listens and perhaps the highlight for me. You can tell they don’t mind a bit of Codeine from this one. That said, they go in for some hefty post hardcore crunch at other times like on the bludgeoning “Tourette’s Class” and “Bow To The Clown” in particular. An impressive and accomplished set of songs all round.
(This is currently available as a digital release but there are plans afoot for a tape and LP too so keep an eye out for them if you’re keen on a physical copy.)