I've had more or less crappy encounters with instrumental bands, with only a few exclusions. This Cork City, Ireland based band now had their chance to get to the latter category. It's a drummer and a guitarist only, but what a force they are at best. But then again, they've been together since 2006 (no pun intended). 'Hot Brains Terror', thematically based on creatures, is their sophomore album.

This duo won't let you off easily. Twisting sprints of so-called "supergrind", the term invented by themselves, are filled with a lot of material parts-wise. It's not really suitable for background listening. 'Weasel Tank Slime' has a great main "theme", which is presented in various forms throughout the song, sometimes metal, sometimes not. And sometimes it's not that good. 'Acid Worm Monsoon' exhibits the band's use of discordant guitar playing. The song is also very twisting and mating totally different parts together. The band can go from grinding madness to some kind of lounge music in a blink of an eye. There are also sludge, death metal, alternative rock and some shoegazing on 'Drowning Dogs in a Swamp'. I'm not going to comment on compositions, because these fellas do it their way, but it's not much for my liking, all this twisting, turning and general hyperactivity.

There are just one guitar and drums. I think there are no additional guitar channels used. It all sounds clear and powerful, very organic indeed. The playing is awesome, especially the turns from one style to another just like that show how talented these guys are. It's not easy at all to notice, that there is no bass guitar there. This is one drum beat extravaganza, let me tell ya! Okay, this isn't 100% instrumental, because the closer 'Forever Sealed in the Electric Brains' Melting Slug-Ray' features some shouting and screaming.

If you want some hyperactive and heavy music, this might be just up your alley. I find it uneasy to listen to, even though there are some bloody fine parts here and there, but it's way to bumpy ride for my liking. However, I understand if someone likes this like a frog likes flies. The score is mainly for acrobatics shown here, and for those best bits in songwriting.

Rating: 5 (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
09/26/2012 19:57