Gigantic Brain – World

Gigantic Brain World:

This seems like a recipe for disaster: a one man cyber-grind band that’s lyrical matter is about space and science fiction. Surprisingly, this album works pretty well. It blends slower, trancy tracks, like Aphex Twin’s ambient works then abruptly cut to ferocious grindcore blips in the style of Agoraphobic Nosebleed. At first this is really jarring and seems to kill the flow of the album, but after a second listen this jumping works and adds to the atmosphere. Still one wishes there was a better segue way between the two. The musicianship is top-notch, with Brain having a good grasp of how to balance noise with the melodic, which is shown on the first track “We’ve Reached The Stars.” The only other problem with this album is the vocals are a bit over-effected. Hopefully Gigantic Brain’s next album will be a bit more cohesive since the idea here is executed well, but could be taken another step.

Agoraphobic Nosebleed – Agorapocalypse

Agoraphobic Nosebleed Agorapocalypse:

The last thing that comes to mind when one things of Agoraphobic Nosebleed is females. Well you better start since Kat, from the band Salome, has joined this constantly changing project. Her vocals are fierce enough to hold up with any of the guys, but still it’s a nice change and really adds to the songs. Another big change is the way the band has slowed down. This album seems almost glacially slow compared to Altered States of America, but that’s not a bad thing. Rather songs are usually made up of at least two parts. This adds depth and variety, curing the one weakness the band ever had. Also Scott Hull has been really practicing with his digital work station since the drum beats have never sound better. Also his playing is just top notch on this album. While it was a wait, Agorapocalypse completely delivers and maybe a high point for extreme music in 2009.

Genghis Tron – Board Up the House

Genghis Tron Board Up the House:

Most modern metal turns me off after a couple songs, because of a lack of variation. RARARARA, CHUGCHUGCHUG, you’re angry, we get it. Genghis Tron balance out their rage with some down-tempo drums and keyboard interplay, and they incorporate clean vocals, which are sung in key. Use great caution when introducing Genghis Tron to the average metal head or hardcore fan, musical dynamics make them cry.

Rating: 13/15 Lamenting Slayer fans