For being such an impact-making label in hardcore, Deathwish has a cool, understated side to them. Hype is not something that comes screaming from their modest press releases. I follow the label’s doings as much as anyone, and this ACID TIGER full-length seemed to go into stealth mode close to its release date. That’s a curious thing since the self-titled record sounds like a smash on initial contact. Much like labelmates DOOMRIDERS, these guys have a progressive itch in their punk, hardcore and garage stylings, but this time around, the main external influence isn’t MOTORHEAD, but something like LED ZEPPELIN (or more contemporary – THE BRONX). Arguably, the main attraction to ACID TIGER is drummer Ben Koller who has absolutely ripped shit up for both CONVERGE and UNITED NATIONS. Given the long-form treatment (songs average six minutes and one goes almost to ten), Koller impresses dearly and is featured prominently throughout, especially on his own drum solo on the appropriately named “Big Beat.” Vocalist “J. Rattlesnake” is no slouch either, thriving with a rangy, lively voice that adheres to the snaking guitars and complex of rhythms. The CAVE IN -related band CLOUDS worked in a similar sphere to ACID TIGER if that’s a helpful reference point, but CLOUDS didn’t benefit from having a vivid Kurt Ballou (God City) recording job. Cerebral stuff for those about to rock…

Deathwish