Kitchen Toonz

Liverpool based act Karl McCann released his latest album  KXI  earlier this September. It doesn't disappoint, providing a mellow, introspective, lofi acoustic journey. The guitar work is a highlight here, delivering somber, reflective riffs and interesting chords. They manage to be engaging while simultaneously providing a great background atmosphere and mood. Layered on top are low, shoegazey vocals that help create a really relaxing soundscape. What I really like about this album is that because of the talented guitar playing and song writing, it never feels stale or repetitive. Whether it be an instrument drawing you in or a fun vocal hook or chorus, each song feels unique while still maintaining the overall vibe of the album. Sad, wistful, introspective. You can get lost in the music and your thoughts, and I think that's a sign of good writing. I would say the only negative to this album is the production. There are moments where it feels like the mic is almost clippi...

Knocked Loose dropped their much awaited second LP last month and it's even heavier than their first. They bring back their signature sound from Laugh Tracks and throw in a few new sounds. I particularly like the incorporation of their guitarist's vocals and the more complex, death metal style riffing they do in songs like Forget Your Name  and By The Grave . I think that's where the love ends for me though. Don't get me wrong, I don't dislike this album. I don't think I'm particularly fond of it either though. Maybe I hyped it up too much in my head and that's why I'm disappointed. It just doesn't pull me in or make me want to listen to it back to back, over and over. There are individual songs I'm happy to put on, but as a whole it doesn't do it for me. While heavy riffs are awesome, A Different Shade Of Blue  can feel very repetitive at times. I think the songwriting was actually a negative for me. Oftentimes it felt like it would...

2018 ended with a bang with the release of The Parallel's full length, 'Weaver'. Check these guys out if you enjoy progressive metalcore in the vein of Structures or Intervals. This album combines chaotic and dissonant riffs with melodic choruses and complex guitar work to create a really exciting listening experience. In my experience bands can often overdo the dissonant style riffs until it becomes almost boring to listen to, and the The Parallel does not do this. There are enough dynamics and change so the album doesn't become stale. The drummer Ron Totman does really great cleans, and I believe both guitarists participate in vocals as well. Brett Cox's vocals during choruses are a particular highlight, but they're all really talented. The ancient Greek theme throughout the album is also pretty neat-o. If you haven't checked The Parallel out yet, definitely have a listen. This is a pretty unique album, which is saying something in a world saturate...