VAUX
"Plague Music" CDEP
Equal
Vision Records
Genres: hardcore, punk metal
band
website
June 6 - 12 2005 |
Screamy hardcore metal/rock from the Equal Vision label - nothing
surprising, sure, but I'm always up for it when it's good. VAUX
does not disappoint. Plague Music may be short, but it
sure makes an impression. Dark, almost demonic moods are infused
with viciously pulverizing guitars and scratchy, furious vocals -
despite the noisiness and energy, though, VAUX still retains a sense
of melody and catchiness. They remind me of some Dim Mak bands
in that way, particularly Envy.
Be it the pulverizing opener, "Celibate Good Times," or
the haunted rock of "Dearest Darkest," this EP rocks like no
other. Play it loud and it's a completely cathartic experience -
surprisingly devoid of the sort of love angst many of these bands are
known for. The only blip in the rock entourage is "Sex Will
Happen Tonight," a dark and unnerving piece of demented pop -
despite the change of pace, though, it fits in surprisingly well with
the rest of the disc, and simply offers a breath (or gasp?) of air
before the listener is pushed into the swirling vortex of the closing
title-track.
The Plague Music EP is short, but it's quite an
experience. Take a look if you're interested in an equally
harrowing and pulverizing record.
85%
Matt Shimmer [Vitals:
5 tracks, distributed by the
label, released 2004] |
