Much more metallic than their demo. CLOWN ALLEY now sounds like a cross between METALLICA and C.O.C., with lyrics that range from topical to abstract. Powerful production, nice packaging, not much guitar wanking. I dig this!
Hard-driving punk and post-punk that’s really simple, basic, yet there’s something pretty unique in their approach. Reminds me a bit of early RICHARD HELL & THE VOIDOIDS for the same reasons. Cool.
Hey, Tesco, heard any good “industrial” stuff lately? Well, you’re missing out on this one! HIJOKAIDAN (ESCAPE EXIT) is absolutely bizarre, distortion gone mad. Wild little noises playing havoc with your ears as sometimes frenzied vocals splurt out psycho noise. Has the makings of a great soundtrack recording. You know, this went into Tim’s trade pile, so you better call fast; it’s from Japan to boot!
How can I describe this? How bout manic mind music that pegs the needle on a seismograph. How bout punk rock, metal, thrash, dirge, post-punk, schizophrenia, depression, and happiness twisted into a music shrink’s worst possible nightmare. Excruciating yet so beautiful, this is amazing. P.S. Cute cover, Victor.
A couple of new members this time around, but that hasn’t slowed down POISON IDEA’s momentum one bit; this is still their brand of loud, potent powerthrash. Slightly more metal than in the past but the accent here is on the force and fury. Scorching.
Inside this very elaborate package (full color jacket and comic book) comes a very hot album. Cross BLACK FLAG with VICTIMS FAMILY and toss in some BEEFEATER for spice and you have an idea of what this is like. Very strong.
Some intense, powerful speedmetal from this young Bay Area outfit. The big influence here seems to be SLAYER, judging from the fast straightforward approach and lyrics about ghouls and goblins. Could’ve been a bit more original, but this still blows down the walls.
I’ve heard this is one of Japan’s earliest thrash hands, and this posthumous release was recorded live in 1979 to prove the point. Results: totally ripping, ragged-ass, no-holds-barred thrash. Besides the clear vinyl, collectors will seek this for its small pressing (500 made), but anyone else will want it ’cause it shreds!
